The National Association of Rice Millers (ANALMO) has reaffirmed its commitment to the national industry and has urged authorities to join the fight against smuggling and counterfeiting of products. These practices not only affect the agro-industry and the economy of Panama, but also undermine consumer trust.
The recent seizure of a shipment of counterfeit products under the registered brand Arroz Pelin, discovered by the National Customs Authority of Panama, highlights the importance of strengthening control and monitoring measures. These types of crimes not only infringe on Industrial Property Rights but also endanger food security and the jobs generated by the national agro-industry.
According to data from ANALMO, around 15,000 quintals of illegal rice enter the Panamanian market annually, displacing the demand for local products. Additionally, more than 75% of the rice seeds sown in 2022 came from smuggling from Costa Rica, exposing local crops to serious diseases. The annual economic losses due to smuggling are estimated between $15 and $20 million, including tax evasion and its direct impact on the agro-industry.
As a result, more than 46,000 direct jobs in rice production and processing in Panama are at risk. Therefore, ANALMO has requested that authorities accelerate investigations, impose exemplary penalties on those responsible, and promote the approval of a law that imposes harsher penalties on those involved in these illegal activities.
The association is committed to closely collaborating with authorities, allied unions, and other key actors to strengthen national production and protect consumer trust in Panamanian products. To support the national industry and ensure the quality and safety of food, consumers are advised to purchase rice only at authorized sales points.
ANALMO, as a representative of the milling sector, will continue to drive initiatives in collaboration with authorities and society to ensure the sustainability of this key sector for the economy and food security of the country.
