Panama Food Import Regulations: What Exporters Need to Know

Exporting food to Panama offers global brands a valuable entry point into Latin America—but navigating the country's import regulations is essential to success. This guide breaks down the most important requirements, agencies, and documentation you need to legally and efficiently bring food products into Panama.

1. Key Regulatory Authorities

Food imports in Panama are primarily overseen by two government entities:

• AUPSA (Panamanian Food Safety Authority): Regulates imported food products to ensure safety and compliance with national health standards.

• MINSA (Ministry of Health): Oversees sanitary registration, labeling, and inspection for human consumption.

If your product enters for commercial purposes, it must be registered and approved by these bodies prior to distribution.

2. Product Registration Process

Before importing a food product for the first time, you must complete a sanitary registration with AUPSA. This includes:

• Providing a Certificate of Free Sale (issued by the country of origin)

• Submitting product composition and labeling information

• Paying registration fees

• Passing a risk assessment (some products may require lab testing)

Registration Timeline: 4–6 weeks for new products. Renewals and previously approved items move faster.

3. Labeling Requirements in Panama

Food products must comply with Panama’s labeling regulations, which are strictly enforced. Labels must:

• Be in Spanish

• Include product name, brand, and description

• Display ingredients, allergen information, nutritional content

• State expiration or best-by date

• List country of origin

• Show the name and address of the Panamanian importer or distributor

Note: Stickers in Spanish are allowed for small batch or test-market shipments, but full print packaging in Spanish is preferred for retail distribution.

4. Documentation Required for Import

You will need to submit the following documents to Panama Customs (Dirección General de Aduanas) and AUPSA:

• Commercial invoice

• Bill of lading or air waybill

• Packing list

• Certificate of origin

• Sanitary or health certificate from exporting country

• Sanitary registration approval (if applicable)

5. Inspection & Clearance

Upon arrival, products are inspected by both AUPSA and customs. If documentation is correct and no risk is flagged, clearance typically occurs within 48–72 hours. Delays can occur if documentation is incomplete or the shipment is flagged for random testing.

To avoid issues:

• Work with a licensed customs broker

• Pre-register all documents before shipment arrives

• Ensure batch numbers and lot codes match paperwork

6. Duties and Taxes

Most food products are subject to import duties, VAT, and additional taxes depending on classification under the Harmonized System (HS) code.

• Import Duty: Varies by product, typically 0%–15%

• ITBMS (VAT): 7% for most food categories

• Exemptions: Some U.S. goods benefit from the U.S.–Panama Trade Promotion Agreement

Conclusion: Compliance First, Success Next

Panama offers a streamlined import process compared to many LATAM countries, but exporters must still comply with rigorous health, labeling, and registration requirements. Partnering with an experienced distributor or customs broker can make a significant difference in avoiding delays and penalties.