The Consumer Protection and Competition Defense Authority (Acodeco) announced that it is maintaining a preventive strategy to minimize risks to consumers, given the increase in the sale of tourist packages, especially during this high season and with international events like the World Cup on the horizon. The administrator of Acodeco, Ramón Abadi Balid, stated that the institution has adopted a proactive approach, with the goal of acting before consumers are affected. Abadi reported that a meeting was held with representatives of travel agencies and a strategic alliance was established with the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP), the Panamanian Football Federation (Fepafut), and the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI), in order to guide citizens and prevent possible scams. He explained that one of the main risks identified is the proliferation of fictitious agencies that offer travel packages through social media and the internet, without having an operating permit, valid insurance, or registration with the Panama Tourism Authority. He also warned that there are agencies that, even if registered, have expired documents or fail to meet legal requirements. “Acodeco seeks for consumers to acquire tourist packages only with formal agencies that have a valid operating permit, an established commercial premises, and a clear contact point, so that the institution can act and guarantee their rights in case of any anomaly,” the administrator indicated. Although no formal complaints related to World Cup travel packages have been received so far, Acodeco recalled that offers are just beginning to circulate and urged the public to act with caution, especially regarding attractive promotions with installment payments or long-term contracts.
