How to Import Consumer Products to Panama: A Practical Guide for Brands and Distributors

With its strategic location, dollarized economy, and growing middle class, Panama is a prime entry point for consumer brands looking to expand into Latin America. But before your product hits the shelf, there’s one important hurdle: import compliance.

Whether you’re an FMCG brand, cosmetics manufacturer, or home goods supplier, this guide outlines everything you need to know to import your products to Panama successfully.

1. Do You Need Product Registration? It Depends on the Category.

In Panama, not all products require registration—but many do. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Products that typically require registration:

• Food & beverages

• Cosmetics & skincare

• Nutritional supplements

• Pharmaceuticals

• Medical devices

• Cleaning products (industrial or personal use)

Products that typically don’t:

• Clothing and fashion accessories

• Electronics and home décor

• Furniture and tools

If you fall in the regulated category, you’ll need to submit your product for approval with MINSA (Ministry of Health) or ASEP (for electrical products).

2. Labeling Requirements: Spanish, Clear, and Compliant

Panama requires Spanish-language labeling on imported consumer goods. Key elements include:

• Product name and description

• Ingredients (for food, cosmetics, and supplements)

• Country of origin

• Expiry date (in DD/MM/YYYY format)

• Manufacturer and importer information

• Batch/lot number

• Health or nutrition claims (must be backed by documentation)

It’s best to have packaging pre-approved before mass printing, especially for first-time imports.

3. Appoint a Local Importer or Legal Representative

If your company is not legally established in Panama, you’ll need to work with a local distributor, importer, or customs broker. This partner will:

• Act as the Importer of Record

• Handle local paperwork and compliance submissions

• Pay duties and taxes on your behalf

• Coordinate warehouse delivery or direct-to-retail logistics

At GetRetailAccess.com, we help foreign brands find vetted, category-specific import partners to streamline this process.

4. Understand Panama’s Tariffs and Duties

Panama uses the Harmonized Tariff System (HTS) and applies import duties ranging from 0% to 15%, depending on the product category. Other applicable costs include:

• 7% ITBMS (value-added tax, similar to VAT)

• Customs processing fees

• Additional health or inspection fees (for regulated products)

Some products from countries with free trade agreements (like the U.S. and EU) may benefit from reduced or zero duties—provided proper origin documentation is submitted.

5. Key Steps to Get Your Product on the Shelf in Panama

Here’s a simplified process for importing retail-ready goods:

1. Market Feasibility Check: Validate product fit, pricing, and competitors.

2. Compliance Prep: Confirm whether registration is needed and adapt labeling.

3. Find a Local Importer: Choose an experienced logistics or distribution partner.

4. Document Collection: Gather invoices, certificates of origin, product specs, etc.

5. Customs Clearance: Submit documents and pay applicable duties and VAT.

6. Logistics and Delivery: Send product to warehouse or retail distribution center.

7. Retail Placement: Begin local marketing and shelf rollout.

Bonus: Importing Small Volumes via Courier

Panama allows for small-scale imports via courier (like FedEx or DHL) under $2,000 CIF value with simplified procedures. This is ideal for early testing, sampling, or low-volume B2C sales.

Final Thoughts

Panama offers a pro-business environment—but only for brands that understand and respect local rules. The import process can be navigated efficiently with the right preparation and local support, from paperwork to partnerships.

At GetRetailAccess.com, we specialize in helping brands go from compliant import to in-store success across Panama and the wider Latin American region.

👉 Need help registering your product or finding a local importer? Contact us and we’ll guide you through the process, step by step.