Export to Panama

Export to Panama: a 2026 guide for US manufacturers

5 min read · Updated 2026-09-26 · By the Fromerica team

Panama is one of the simpler markets for US exporters: no general import licenses, a trade agreement since 2012 and the Colón Free Zone for regional distribution.

The US-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement

According to USTR, the agreement entered into force on October 31, 2012. Over 87 percent of US exports of consumer and industrial products became duty free on entry into force, with remaining tariffs phased out over ten years; nearly 56 percent of US agricultural exports became duty free immediately, with most remaining tariffs phased out over 15 years.

Documents and rules

No import licenses are required: any company with a commercial license can import freely. Firearms, ammunition and fertilizers need special permits.
Core documents: original commercial invoice and bill of lading or air waybill.
Depending on the product: sanitary or phytosanitary certificates for food and agricultural items, a certificate of free sale for pharmaceuticals, and a certificate of origin to qualify for preferential duties.
ITBMS (transfer tax on goods and services) of 7% also applies to imports.

Colón Free Zone

According to PROPANAMA, the Colón Free Zone applies a 0% tax to imports and re-exports of goods. Since April 1, 2026, Panama’s customs authority requires an export or re-export declaration when goods leave Panamanian territory.

US-side steps for every shipment

Classify the product with its 10-digit Schedule B number (Census Bureau search tool); the first 6 digits are the Harmonized System code your buyer uses for their own tariff.
File Electronic Export Information (EEI) in AES, through ACE AESDirect or a direct connection, when the value under an individual Schedule B number is over $2,500 or an export license is required. The USPPI or its authorized agent files it.
Check your export classification. According to BIS, items subject to the EAR that are not listed on the Commerce Control List are EAR99 and, in most situations, need no license, unless they go to a restricted end user, end use or destination.
Screen your buyer, consignee and end user against the Consolidated Screening List, which combines export screening lists of the Departments of Commerce, State and the Treasury.

Screen a buyer →Guide: how to export from the USA →Look up HTS codes →

Frequently asked questions

Does Panama require import licenses?

Not generally. According to the International Trade Administration, any company with a commercial license can import freely; firearms, ammunition and fertilizers need special permits.

How do I qualify for duty-free treatment in Panama?

Provide a certificate of origin showing the goods originate under the US-Panama TPA.

Official sources

This page is general information to help you get started. It is not legal, tax or customs advice, and regulations change. Confirm current requirements with the official sources above or with a licensed customs broker, freight forwarder or trade compliance professional.