The Panamanian Consumer Protection and Competition Defense Authority (Acodeco) has implemented a preventive strategy to regulate the sale of travel packages, particularly ahead of major events like the FIFA World Cup. In alliance with the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP) and the Panamanian Football Federation (Fepafut), Acodeco is guiding citizens on the importance of hiring services only from formally constituted companies. Key recommendations include verifying that the agency is listed in official Acodeco and ATP registries, checking for a physical address and the legal representative's identity, reviewing other users' feedback before making payments, and consulting the authority to verify contracts before signing. The entity reiterated its commitment to supporting consumers and guaranteeing their rights, emphasizing that prior verification is the most effective tool to prevent irregularities in the acquisition of tourist services. Acodeco has also identified the proliferation of fictitious agencies operating online as a primary risk and urges caution with offers involving installment payments or long-term contracts.
