Panama recorded $980.1 million in exports in 2025, the highest level in the past 16 years, according to data presented by the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI). The milestone comes as the government expands the national certification program “Hecho en Panamá”, an initiative designed to strengthen the global presence of products manufactured or transformed within the country.
Officials say the program aims to highlight the quality, identity, and competitiveness of Panamanian products in international markets while supporting local producers and exporters.
Record Export Performance
During a meeting with members of the American Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Panama (AmCham Panama), Minister of Commerce and Industries Julio Moltó outlined the latest export results and explained the role of the “Hecho en Panamá” certification in supporting trade growth.
According to MICI, Panama’s exports reached $980.1 million in 2025, marking the strongest performance in more than a decade and a half.
The country currently maintains 23 active trade agreements, allowing Panamanian products to access a wide range of global markets.
Several products have gained international recognition in recent years, including:
- Geisha coffee, widely regarded as one of the most exclusive coffees in the world
- Designer furniture produced in Panama
- Bottled water brands that are expanding into international markets
The government sees these industries as part of a broader strategy to diversify exports and increase the value of goods produced in Panama.
What the “Hecho en Panamá” Seal Means
The Hecho en Panamá certification identifies products that are either produced locally or transformed within the country through processes that add value.
According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industries, the seal acts as a national quality mark that helps buyers recognize Panamanian-made products in international markets.
Officials describe the initiative as more than just a label. It is intended to serve as a country-brand strategy that promotes the identity and reliability of Panamanian production.
Program Expansion Underway
The government relaunched the Hecho en Panamá program in 2025 with the goal of turning it into a more active tool for commercial promotion.
As part of the relaunch, authorities organized a national design competition to refresh the brand’s visual identity. The contest attracted more than 1,300 submissions, reflecting growing interest from the business community.
Currently:
- 80 companies participate in the program
- Around 1,000 products carry the Hecho en Panamá certification
Government officials have set a goal to double the number of certified products by 2026 as part of a broader export expansion strategy.
Strategy for 2026
During discussions with business leaders, several proposals were introduced to expand the reach of the program.
Among the initiatives being considered:
- Direct support for companies seeking certification
- Registration campaigns throughout the interior provinces
- Training programs on how businesses can use the seal as a marketing tool
- Participation of logistics companies and service providers
- International promotion campaigns highlighting Panamanian brands
The strategy also includes greater visibility for certified companies and expanded promotion in foreign markets.
Officials say these efforts aim to strengthen Panama’s reputation as a producer of high-quality goods while increasing export opportunities for local businesses.
Economic Growth and Opportunities for Investors
The rise in exports reflects broader economic momentum in Panama as the country continues to expand its role in global trade and logistics.
For investors and expats considering relocation, Panama’s growing export sector highlights the country’s increasing integration into international markets and its ongoing efforts to strengthen domestic production.
Regions such as Boquete and the Azuero Peninsula are examples of areas where agricultural production, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing intersect with the broader national economy.
As Panama continues to promote locally produced goods internationally, economic activity in agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics could create additional opportunities across the country.
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Article written: March 15, 2026
