The U.S. Commercial Service helps U.S. companies export goods and services through its offices around the world. The document summarizes key information about Panama, including its economy, trading partners, opportunities, and top prospects for U.S. exports. It also outlines the services provided by the U.S. Commercial Service in Panama, such as market research, identifying partners, and organizing trade events and meetings through its Gold Key Service.

1. U.S. Commercial Service &
Panama
Sandra Campbell
Senior International Trade Specialist
U.S. Commercial Service Tampa Bay

2. U.S. Commercial Service
The U.S. Commercial Service is part of the U.S. Department
of Commerce, with over 100 offices in the U.S. and 80
countries worldwide within U.S. Embassies/Consulates.
Our Mission:
– Help companies export U.S.
made products and services.
– To represent U.S. business
interests internationally.
– Place emphasis on small &
medium-sized enterprises.

3. How We Help
• Target the best markets with market
research.
– Sector/sub-sector specific reports
– Customized reports
• Recommend best export strategies.
• Identify reliable international partners.
– Gold Key Service
– International Partner Search

4. How We Help
• Organize trade events
– Trade shows
– Trade missions
– Foreign Buyer Program at U.S. Shows
• Advocate on your behalf

5. Panama
The Cross Roads of the World
“Location, Location, Location”, more significant than size!!!
• Population: 3.3 million
• GDP: $25.04 billion (2009 est.)
• GDP per capita: $11,900 (2009 est.)
• GDP: Composition by sector:
Services 75%, Industry 18%,
Agriculture 6%
• Source: CIA World Factbook

6. Panama’s Advantages
Dollarized economy, simplifies business planning, no
currency risk.
Large local banking sector, finance & credit availability.
Finest intermodal transport capability in the region.
Ports on Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Stable economic and political environment.
Major regional logistics center with direct air routes
throughout Latin America.
Strong preferences for U.S. made products and services.
Bilingual and well educated workforce.
High level of personal security.

7. Panama’s Principal Trading
Partners
Total Imports to Panama: $ 13.6 billion
(2009 est.)
U.S. Imports from Panama : $304 million
U.S. Export to Panama : $4.3 billion (est. $1
billion going to the Colon Free Zone)
Other trading partners: Europe, China, Japan,
Mexico and South America
Import Sectors:
•Automotive •Consumer Goods •Apparel
•Telecom •Computers •Air Conditioning
•Construction •Energy •Pharmaceuticals

8. Panama’s Opportunities
Energy Technology Hub
Electrical generation - $1 billion Panama is a crossroads for global
fiber optic cables
Logistic Services
Panama Canal - $5.25 billion
Ports on Atlantic & Pacific $500 million
Howard Special Zone
Colon Free Zone
City of Knowledge

9. Best Prospect for U.S.
Exports
1. Wholesaling & Warehousing
2. Building Products
3. Travel & Tourism
4. Telecommunications Equipment
5. Computer & Peripherals
6. Construction Equipment
7. Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Equipment
8. Electrical Power Systems
9. Security & Safety Equipment
10. Materials & Handling Machinery

11. Our Services
Trade Counseling
Market Research
International Partner Search
Gold Key Service
International Company Profile
Single Company Promotion

12. Gold Key Service
Pre-screened appointment schedule
arranged for you before you travel
overseas
Customized market and industry
briefings with our local trade specialists
Post-meeting debriefing with our trade
specialists and assistance in developing
appropriate follow-up strategies
Help with travel, accommodations,
interpreter service, and clerical support

13. Our Staff in Panama
Daniel Crocker, Senior Commercial Officer
Enrique Tellez, Senior Commercial Specialist
Jeane Zuniga, Commercial Specialist
Diana Lozano, Commercial Assistant

14. Contact Us
U.S. Commercial Service
Tampa Bay Export Assistance Center
sandra.campbell@trade.gov
727-893-3738 * www.export.gov