Importing goods and merchandise in Panama
Thanks to its international airport and the Panama Canal, frequented by ships from around the world, Panama is highly connected to the rest of the world, ensuring a constant flow of imports into the country. The importation of products is facilitated by very simple administrative procedures to complete. However, in practice, the process can be more complicated than expected. Below, we offer a series of recommendations for successful import procedures in Panama. Panama Contact Services, in collaboration with its partners such as customs brokers, supports both companies and individuals in these procedures. Throughout the process, our teams accompany you until you are in possession of your merchandise.
Required documentation for importing in Panama:
Commercial invoice and packing list, indicating details of quantity, product type, and place of shipment.
Bill of lading manifest for tax purposes, with the name of the consignee of the goods.
The appropriate permit if it is a restricted import.
Other required documents:
Import declaration signed by an authorized customs broker.
Commercial invoice in English and Spanish, with the original and four copies.
An air waybill for air shipments.
Bill of Lading for maritime cargoes.
Transport letter for land freight.
Restrictions for importing food:
The health authority of Panama requires additional verification to obtain the Certificate of Sale (CFS) for food intended for human consumption and other products such as cosmetics. The import must be made through one of the designated ports or airports. The goods must be covered by legal shipping documents, and taxes and duties established by law must be paid. To obtain certain goods, your company must hold a license. Consult us before sending your shipment to be sure you are able to receive it.
Setting prices and customs costs:
A customs tax is applied according to the imported product and must be paid during customs clearance. Other consular and consumption taxes are also applied, although there may be exceptions.
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