Acodeco Launches 'Back to School' Operation in Panama

The consumer protection authority Acodeco conducted monitoring on February 2 in various stores across Panama City. The checks aimed to ensure that advertised prices matched those registered at checkout scanners and that advertisements were truthful. Parents and guardians can refer to the monitoring results available on Acodeco's official website. School classes are set to begin on Monday, March 2, so an increase in school supply purchases is expected after the Carnival holidays, scheduled for February 14-17. Acodeco announced that following the Carnival, it will launch the 'Back to School' operation nationwide, as stated in a press release from the entity. Among Acodeco's recommendations for parents is to remember that there are items exempt from the ITBMS tax, such as school supplies, books, and uniforms. It is also important to note that no educational institution can compel parents to purchase uniforms or supplies from a specific store. The points to be verified include ensuring that the list of school supplies exempt from the 7% tax is visible to consumers. The operation involves increasing inspections in commercial establishments dedicated to selling school supplies, uniforms, and related items. The authority also urges parents to compare prices before making a purchase. Inspectors visited locations including Albrook Mall, the San Miguelito center (including Gran Estación), Los Andes, and Los Pueblos.