Only in January and February of this year, 130 thousand quintals have been sold during agro-fairs. The general director of IMA, Nilo Murillo Robles, justified before the National Assembly the transfer of a batch of 3 million balboas to buy 700 thousand quintals of rice, the most purchased product by the population. Now there are more cashiers and fewer lines, which allows for faster service for people who come to look for their food at a better price. In terms of food, rice remains the king of purchases. Between July 2024 and February 2026, IMA has held nearly 2,500 agro-fairs, of which 188 were carried out only in January and February 2026, benefiting about 600 thousand families. In just these two months, 130 thousand quintals of rice were sold, the most requested product. According to the report, the 188 fairs this year have benefited about 600 thousand families, who have been able to buy basic necessity products at lower prices. Among the most sought-after items are rice, oil, beans, salt, and sugar, basic products on the Panamanian table. Authorities also assure that logistics has improved. With that purchase, as explained, the supply is guaranteed for several more months. Murillo also announced that soon the sale of meat products will begin, an initiative that many consumers are waiting for and that seeks to strengthen the basic basket with affordable food. IMA is also preparing to open two new "Tiendas del Pueblo" stores, one in Río Hato and another in Alcalde Díaz. Next in line are other points in Las Tablas, Aguadulce, and Cañazas. Currently, there are three stores operating in Frigo, Silos, and next to the National Bingos, plus 13 regional stores and 6 distributors in the Ngäbe Buglé region, which are part of the institute's supply network.
