Practical Guide for Companies Looking to Start Exporting from Panama
Exportation from Panama offers great potential for businesses aiming to grow internationally. Thanks to its strategic geographic location and solid logistics infrastructure, Panama is an ideal launch point for distributing products to global markets. However, successful exportation from Panama requires a clear understanding of the legal, logistical, and documentary processes involved.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps and documentation needed for a smooth and compliant export operation in 2025.
Perishable goods importation in Panama is a growing business opportunity that demands precision, regulatory compliance, and cold chain excellence. From fresh foods to pharmaceuticals, products that are sensitive to temperature and time require special handling to ensure they reach consumers in safe and optimal condition.
If you’re thinking about bringing a vehicle from abroad, it’s essential to know how to nationalize a car in Panama to avoid legal issues and drive without problems. In this blog, we explain step by step how to do it in 2025, what documents you’ll need, and how much the process may cost.
https://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.png00Grupo Aduanero Kamhttps://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.pngGrupo Aduanero Kam2025-05-23 10:42:182025-06-04 11:29:00How to Nationalize a Car in Panama? Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Importing may look simple on paper: pick a product, pay the supplier, and wait for it to arrive. But many business owners and entrepreneurs run into hidden costs they didn’t plan for—costs that can hit their bottom line hard.
In this blog, we’ll break down the most common surprise expenses when importing:
https://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.png00Grupo Aduanero Kamhttps://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.pngGrupo Aduanero Kam2025-05-15 14:57:102025-07-07 15:38:34Hidden Costs in Importing: What No One Tells You Before Bringing Goods into Panama
Need to bring goods into Panama for a limited time? Temporary importation is the legal solution for machinery, equipment, or items that won’t remain permanently in the country. But how is it managed correctly, and what should you keep in mind?
What is Temporary Importation?
It’s a customs regime that allows goods to enter Panama for a set period without paying full import duties, as long as those goods are re-exported in the same condition.
When Does It Apply?
Equipment for trade shows, events, or exhibitions
Machinery for temporary construction or production projects
Goods for testing, research, or demonstrations
Work tools for visiting professionals
This regime does not apply if the products will be sold or modified while in Panama.
What Do You Need to Manage It?
📄 Submit a customs declaration with full product details ⏳ State the estimated length of stay in Panama 🔁 Commit to re-exporting the goods within the allowed timeframe 💰 In some cases, a guarantee or bond may be required 📋 Attach technical and commercial documentation of the equipment
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failure to meet the conditions or deadlines can result in fines, retroactive tax payments, or even seizure of goods by customs.
At Grupo Aduanero KAM, we guide you through every step of the temporary importation process so you stay compliant, avoid surprises, and optimize your logistics costs. We take care of:
Tariff classification
Customs and documentation management
Deadline tracking and extension support
Tailored consulting for your industry
🔎 Bringing equipment or machinery temporarily into Panama? Contact us and avoid costly mistakes in your temporary import procedures.
https://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.png00Grupo Aduanero Kamhttps://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.pngGrupo Aduanero Kam2025-05-09 15:24:112025-05-14 15:24:27Temporary Importation in Panama: When Does It Apply and How Does It Work?
When it comes to importing goods, one of the most important — and often overlooked — steps is tariff classification. This numeric code doesn’t just describe what you’re importing; it determines how much tax you’ll pay, what legal requirements you must meet, and how quickly your goods will clear customs.
What is Tariff Classification?
Tariff classification is the system customs authorities use to identify products entering a country. Using the Harmonized System (HS Code), each item is categorized based on its nature, use, and composition. This code determines how your product will be treated under the law.
Why is it so important?
An incorrect classification can result in:
Overpaying taxes or facing fines
Delays in customs clearance
Goods being blocked for not meeting technical or safety regulations
But a correct classification allows you to:
Apply trade agreements that reduce or eliminate tariffs ✅
Speed up the nationalization process ✅
Avoid penalties or rejections by customs authorities ✅
What factors affect product classification?
Material of the product
It’s purpose or final use
Whether it’s assembled or in parts
Country of origin
For instance, a household appliance and an industrial spare part won’t fall under the same category—even if they arrive in the same shipment.
At Grupo Aduanero KAM, we carefully analyze each product you plan to import and assign the correct tariff classification from the start. This helps you avoid surprises at customs, pay only what’s necessary, and stay compliant with regulations.Don’t risk your import on a wrong code.
Importing goods can be a complex process with multiple steps and paperwork. From unexpected costs to delays in customs procedures, importers often face numerous challenges. However, with proper planning and compliance with legal requirements, it’s possible to minimize these risks and avoid fines and extra charges.
https://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.png00Grupo Aduanero Kamhttps://gakam.com/eng/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/grupo-aduanero-kam-panama-logo-300x292.pngGrupo Aduanero Kam2025-05-01 14:28:512025-05-14 14:30:05How to Avoid Delays and Unexpected Costs in Your Imports
