In Panama, it belongs to the corregimiento of Progreso, in Barú District, Chiriquí.

Because the city is located in a border region, trade is very important for the inhabitants of the area.

Canoas has primary and secondary educational institutions, both private and public.

Also, several Costa Rican universities have headquarters in the region: the National University of Costa Rica (Campus Coto) opened a new center for providing public higher education to nearby communities.

The Latin University of Costa Rica and the Universidad Metropolitana Castro Carazo are also present in Paso Canoas.