Most Panama couriers operating illegally

Some 80 percent of the companies operating as couriers do not comply with the rules established for commercial cargo handling and most are operating illegally says  The National Customs Authority.

The  Panama Chamber of Commerce, (Cciap) and the Authority   are working on a plan to ensure  companies that operate as couriers in the country comply with the rules

Edgardo Sandoval, legal director of Customs, said that about 80% of the companies that are operating as couriers in Panama do not meet the requirements.

“Most of them are operating on the basis of illegality. They outsource the service and import products without paying taxes, “he said.

In the coming weeks a series of requirements that are already law will be emphasized and that all courier companies must comply, including having a copy of the air transport contract where the cargo is transferred and making the payment of a bond for the operation of the activity. In addition, it says that “all users will have access to the integrated customs management system that will allow online declarations. It will also start with a differentiation process between courier cargo and general cargo ”.

The official stated that a period of three months will be given for the actors dedicated to this service to put their documentation in order (that is, they, comply with the regulations and pay taxes properly

Due to the coronavirus pandemic and the confinement measures imposed by the Government to contain the spread of the virus, purchases of products in the international market through digital channels have increased. This boom has prompted the creation of hundreds of companies that offer package transfer service from international destinations to Panama.

For the legal director of Customs, the support of the private company is necessary to order and level the playing field, in such a way that all economic actors comply with the same rules.

Official data indicate that only 17 courier companies are registered with Customs.