🇹🇹 How to import from Panama to Trinidad and Tobago?

Trinidadian nationals who wish to buy tax-free in the Free Zone have two alternatives. The first option is to Buy Online and consists of directly contacting the companies established in the Colon Free Zone, through its Business Directory. There they will find stores classified by product categories and specialized in the Trinidadian market. These companies will provide detailed information on how to acquire the items and which logistics companies to choose to ship their cargo, whether by ship or plane.

The second option is to travel to Panama and make purchases in person. In this case, the buyer will be in charge of coordinating the shipment of their purchases with the logistics companies. We always recommend that interested parties look for information about the companies they wish to visit before their trip, since the Free Zone is extensive and will require several days to tour it properly.

HOW TO BUY WHOLESALE IN THE FREE ZONE?

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN PANAMA

PANAMA POSTAL CODES

Importar desde la Zona Libre de Colón en Panamá hasta Trinidad & Tobago

📦What products can be imported?

Currently, Panama has established itself as the wholesale commercial epicenter of Latin America, standing out for its vast offer of products that includes renowned global brands. A distinctive element when importing from Panama is the agility in the dispatch of merchandise, an aspect that surpasses other markets, such as the Asian giant. This speed is a highly relevant factor, since, although China may offer competitive prices, Panama guarantees product availability and quality, an attribute that is not always easy to find amidst the extensive Chinese supply.

In general terms, it is viable to import a wide diversity of products to the Island, provided that the necessary requirements and procedures are met. However, it is essential to keep in mind that certain items may be subject to import restrictions or prohibitions for reasons of security, public health, environment, as well as commercial and political aspects. For this reason, it is suggested to consult with the Superintendency of Industry and Commerce and have the assistance of a customs agent, in order to ensure that the products intended to be imported are authorized and comply with all legal requirements. With meticulous planning and compliance with the relevant regulations, it is possible to access the Panamanian wholesale market and satisfy demand with quality products and efficient logistics.

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Agriculture

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Food

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Manufacturing Articles

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Cars & Motorcycles

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Babies

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Beauty & Perfumes

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Footwear/ Shoes

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Cigars & Liquors

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Sports

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Electricity

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Home Appliances

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Electronics

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Outdoors

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Hardware

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Hygiene

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Home Goods

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Lighting

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Musical Instruments

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Gardening

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Jewelry & Watches

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Toys

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Glasses & Frames

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White Goods

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Marine

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Medicine

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General Merchandise

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Christmas

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Office & School

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Industrial Products

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Clothing & Accessories

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Security

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Textiles

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Cruise Visitors

The dynamism in commercial relations between both countries is reflected in the impressive annualized growth of 8.46% in Panamanian exports over the last 26 years. This evolution has been extraordinary, going from $2.08 million dollars in 1995 to the remarkable figure of $17.2 million dollars in 2021.

This solid growth has been driven by a combination of factors such as the improvement of logistics infrastructures in Panama, the diversification of the exportable supply, and the consolidation of commercial relations between both countries. In addition, the focus on quality and competitiveness has allowed Panamanian products to gain recognition in the Trinidadian market.

📄What are the requirements to import merchandise into Trinidad and Tobago?

There are several ways to enter your merchandise through customs. Below, we describe the requirements for importing when the value of your purchases exceeds TT$20,000 (approximately $3,000). The first thing you must do is Register as a Merchant, choose which of the following options align with your business and if you meet the requirements:

Steps to hire a Customs Broker – VAT Registered

Contact a Customs Broker
Make the payment for Customs Brokerage Services which will cost approximately between TT$100 and TT$1000
Completed letter of authorization for a customs broker to act on behalf of an importer/exporter (customs brokers board authorization form)
Completed application form for importer/exporter registration number

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
VAT registration certificate
Valid ID/Passport for Authorized Signatory
Business registration/certificate of company incorporation Form of
Approved Brokers Board Authorization

Steps to hire a Customs Broker – Non-VAT Registered

Contact a Customs Broker
Make the payment for Customs Brokerage Services which will cost approximately between TT$100 and TT$1000
Completed letter of authorization for a customs broker to act on behalf of an importer/exporter (customs brokers board authorization form)
Completed application form for importer/exporter registration number

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
Valid ID/Passport for Authorized Signatory
Exemption letter
Fill out the Approved Brokers Board Authorization Form
Fill out the Importer/Exporter Registration Number Application Form

Steps to hire a customs broker: Non-VAT registered (Business)

Contact a Customs Broker
Make the payment for Customs Brokerage Services which will cost approximately between TT$100 and TT$1000
Completed letter of authorization for a customs broker to act on behalf of an importer/exporter (customs brokers board authorization form)
Completed application form for importer/exporter registration number

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
Business registration/certificate of company incorporation
Valid ID/Passport for Authorized Signatory
Fill out the Approved Brokers Board Authorization Form
Fill out the Importer/Exporter Registration Number Application Form

Steps to register for a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account (VAT registered - Individual)

Registration for a CBCS account is only relevant for those acting as Customs Clerks/Clerks (declarants) or Agents. Under this term, «Agents» refers to individuals responsible for shipping and manifesting imported goods. Likewise, «Agents» and «Customs Clerks» refer to the professionals responsible for submitting declarations.

Contact Customs and Excise Division – Ministry of Finance located at Government Campus Plaza Ajax Street, Wrightson Rd, Port of Spain, Phone: +1 (868) 625-3311
Submit Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89
Wait for approval
Obtain a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account
The applicant receives the CBCS account information by email from the Customs and Excise Division.

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
National ID
Importer/exporter registration number
VAT registration certificate
Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89
Certificate of Incorporation/Certificate of Registration

Steps to register for a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account (Non-VAT registered - Individual)

Contact Customs and Excise Division – Ministry of Finance located at Government Campus Plaza Ajax Street, Wrightson Rd, Port of Spain, Phone: +1 (868) 625-3311
Contact the Inland Revenue Division – Ministry of Finance located at Victoria Courts, Queen Street, Port of Spain Trinidad, West Indies Phone: +1 (868) 623-4735 – +1 (868) 623-4737
Submit Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89
Wait for approval
Obtain a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account
The applicant receives the CBCS account information by email from the Customs and Excise Division.

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
Importer/exporter registration number
Exemption letter
Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89

Steps to register for a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account (VAT registered - Business)

Contact Customs and Excise Division – Ministry of Finance located at Government Campus Plaza Ajax Street, Wrightson Rd, Port of Spain, Phone: +1 (868) 625-3311
Submit Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89
Wait for approval
Obtain a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account
The applicant receives the CBCS account information by email from the Customs and Excise Division.

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
Importer/exporter registration number
VAT registration certificate
Business registration/certificate of company incorporation
Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89

Steps to register for a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account (Non-VAT registered - Business)

Contact Customs and Excise Division – Ministry of Finance located at Government Campus Plaza Ajax Street, Wrightson Rd, Port of Spain, Phone: +1 (868) 625-3311
Submit Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89
Wait for approval
Obtain a Customs and Excise Border Control System (CBCS) account
The applicant receives the CBCS account information by email from the Customs and Excise Division.

Required documents:

BIR Number (Board of Inland Revenue)
Importer/exporter registration number
Business registration/certificate of company incorporation
Border Customs Control System – User Application – Form C 89

🚢How much does freight cost from Panama to Trinidad and Tobago?

✅ If you want to start your import, the first thing is to have the merchandise information, what will be the destination port which in this case you have 2 options that are Port of Spain and Point Lisas, weight and measurements of the package. Then, contact air or maritime transport companies in Panama and search the official directory of the Colon Free Zone. Sending your products from Panama guarantees more favorable delivery times than doing it from the United States of America or China.

Generally, air shipments ✈ from PTY to POS or PTY to TAB have a daily frequency, while maritime shipments ⛴ have a weekly frequency. When opting for maritime shipping, make sure to verify the availability of containers with the transport company to move your merchandise to its destination.

CRUISE VISITORS GUIDE

ELECTRONICS IN FREE ZONE

PERFUMES AND COSMETICS IN FREE ZONE

📦What is the difference with importing products from China?

The main difference between importing merchandise from China or from Panama to Trinidad and Tobago lies in the distance between the countries. The import process from China implies a longer transport time due to the considerable distance between the places and the time required for the products to arrive from the supplier. The transit period can range between 25 and 35 days to reach the Island’s Ports. On the other hand, importing from Panama is faster due to geographical proximity and does not exceed 8 days.

Furthermore, buying products from China can entail additional costs due to shipping expenses and potential applicable tariffs. In contrast, supplying your business from Panama can be more economical due to geographical proximity and also the existence of the Partial Scope Trade Agreement (PSTA) with Panama. This agreement can facilitate processes and reduce costs associated with your import.

FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE CENTER FOR $1

COLON FREE PORT

HOW TO SEND MERCHANDISE TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO?

💻 Is it safe to buy online?

Yes, it is safe to buy in Panama if you are Trinidadian. To do so, we recommend contacting the Free Zone companies directly. You can find the contact details of each one on directoriozolicol.com. Many of these companies have websites or social networks through which you can communicate with them and clarify any doubts you may have.

It is important to highlight that Panama and Trinidad and Tobago have good political and commercial relations, which facilitates the exchange of different items through import and export.

Once you have found where to buy, you must look for a company that ships to Trinidad and Tobago from Panama. If you decide to opt for maritime shipping, it is advisable to check if they have containers available to move your merchandise and thus avoid inconveniences with waiting times. Keep in mind that upon arriving in Trinidad and Tobago, the merchandise may take several days to be processed before you can pick it up.

On the other hand, if you prefer air shipping, it will arrive faster, but you must still wait for the National Customs Directorate to process the merchandise. Shipping prices will depend on the products you buy and the type of transport you choose. It is recommended that you consult with the logistics company to obtain precise information about costs and estimated times.

🛬 What are the Commercial Airports to receive my imports in Trinidad and Tobago?

They have several commercial airports that play a crucial role in air connectivity and the transport of passengers and goods. Some of the main commercial airports are:

Piarco International Airport (POS): Located in Trinidad, it is the largest and busiest airport on the Island. It is a major hub and handles international and regional flights.
Arthur Napoleon Raymond Robinson International Airport (TAB): Situated in Tobago, this international airport also plays a fundamental role in the connectivity of the Caribbean Island, handling domestic and international flights.

⚓What are the sailing times from Panama to Trinidad and Tobago?

The Island has several commercial ports on its Caribbean coasts, which are important for international trade and the country’s economy. Generally, transit time ranges from 4 to 8 days of sailing depending on the destination port, in addition to having weekly departure frequencies. Some of the most important ports are:

Port of Port of Spain: Located in the capital, it is the main commercial port handling a variety of goods, including containers, bulk cargo, and general cargo. The transit time to the port is a minimum of 4 days.
Port of Point Lisas: It is one of the largest and most modern ports located in the Gulf of Paria and focuses on handling chemicals, petrochemical products, and bulk cargo. The transit time to the port is a minimum of 8 days.
Port of Point Fortin: Situated on the southwest coast of Trinidad, this port specializes in exporting products related to the energy industry, such as oil and gas.
Port of Point Galeota: Located on the east coast of Trinidad, this port is important for the oil sector and cargo handling in the energy industry.
Port of Scarborough: On the island of Tobago, the port of Scarborough is essential for the island’s trade, handling general cargo and ferry connections.
Port of La Brea: This port is located on the southwest coast of Trinidad and is relevant for the energy industry and oil exports.
Port of Chaguaramas: This port, located on the Chaguaramas peninsula in Trinidad, is known for its marina and also handles some commercial operations.

To obtain detailed information on all ports, I would recommend consulting with the Ministry of Works and Transport in the Maritime Services Division.

📄Where is the Embassy of Trinidad and Tobago located?

Currently, it has its embassy in the Hi-Point Offices Building, Floors 22 and 23, Federico Boyd Avenue and 51st Street, Bella Vista, Panama City, PO Box 0832-00835, and which you can contact by phone at (+507) 388-5800 / 388-5801 or through its email embttpanama@foreign.gov.tt

🏨Where to stay if I travel to make my purchases?

If you book in advance you can save a lot of money; below we show you the hotel options chosen by the merchants who visit us in the Free Zone. Keep in mind that they are close by and you have the option to take a van or taxi that will take you inside it.

HOTEL LA CUBANA

HOTEL ANDROS

HOTEL SOTELO

We also show you the options for hotels near the Free Zone and if you like you can consult the tentative dates for your trip. We have an agreement with the hotel search portal booking.com to offer our visitors the best deals on accommodation.

HOTELS IN PANAMA

📄What is the Partial Scope Trade Agreement (PSTA) between Panama and Trinidad and Tobago?

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1995, both countries have enjoyed a cordial and fruitful relationship. As a result of sustained negotiations, both countries reached a Partial Scope Trade Agreement (PSTA) which was signed in October 2013 and ratified by the President in April 2015. This important agreement has been incorporated into legislation through Act No. 5 of 2015 and is currently in the process of implementation.

The main objective of the PSTA (Partial Scope Trade Agreement) is to improve bilateral trade between Trinidad and Tobago and Panama. Through this agreement, it seeks to facilitate access to the markets of both countries for a wide range of products.

The PSTA opens the door to greater diversification of exported and imported products between both countries. There is access to a total of 230 products in the Panamanian market, while Panama benefits from tariff reductions on 248 products of Trinidadian origin. Among the products with access to the Panamanian market are chewing gum, peanut butter, doors and windows, building blocks, bitumen, sparkling water, paper products, tiles and blocks, metal products, plastic and paper packaging, other packaging materials, as well as agro-processed products such as cocoa, cereals, and nuts.

The Trade Agreement does not stop at its current benefits. In addition to the existing provisions, it also lays the groundwork for future negotiations. Among them is the possibility of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), the liberalization of services, and additional access for specific products after three years from its entry into force.

⚓What are the types of maritime containers to send my purchases?

Currently there are port-to-port logistics services depending on your specific needs.

FULL CONTAINER LOAD – FCL FROM PANAMA TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Discover container service options to Trinidad and Tobago in 20 and 40-foot sizes. If your cargo requires different types of equipment, such as open-top, flat rack, refrigerated, or others, the specialized equipment division in the Free Zone will offer you the most suitable and available options.

LESS THAN CONTAINER LOAD – LCL FROM PANAMA TO TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

You will always have a maritime consolidation service from Panama to Trinidad and Tobago if your shipment is not enough to fill a full container. When using this service, the corresponding rate is calculated based on the volume of the cargo. In the event that the weight of the cargo exceeds the maximum limit allowed per cubic meter, the applicable rate will be determined based on the weight.