Generally, the marketing channel structure in Panama is simple.
Direct importers act as wholesalers and in some cases also as retailers.
This situation is common in the case of apparel, automotive parts and hardware products. In the case of consumer goods, food and medicines, the retail operation is separate from the wholesale operation. In the industrial goods sector, sales are normally handled by local exclusive agents or distributors. In other cases, local firms order directly from U.S. brokers or the manufacturer. According to Panama's constitution, nationals and foreigners are equal under the law.