What if your product could enter the U.S. with lower tariffs?
In a global market shaped by cost volatility, geopolitical tensions, and rising tariffs, companies are looking for new ways to optimize their supply chains. In this context, the nearshoring model has emerged as a key strategy to bring production and logistics processes closer to target markets. Thanks to its geographic location, favorable tax structure, and advanced logistics capabilities, Panama has become a strategic location to implement this strategy—especially through the Colón Free Zone.
What is Nearshoring?
Nearshoring is a business outsourcing strategy that involves relocating production, assembly, or transformation processes to countries near the target market. Unlike offshoring, where processes are carried out in distant countries (such as China or Vietnam), nearshoring helps reduce delivery times, minimize supply chain risks, and improve responsiveness to customer needs.
Additionally, by performing certain value-added processes in the country of export origin, it becomes possible to obtain preferential certificates of origin. These allow tariff benefits in markets like the U.S. or the European Union.
Panama and the Colón Free Zone: A Platform for Nearshoring
Panama is recognized as one of the most important logistics hubs in Latin America. Its privileged geographic location, interoceanic connection through the Panama Canal, dual-ocean port network, and air connectivity make it a natural hub for international trade operations.
The Colón Free Zone (CFZ), as a free trade zone, offers ideal fiscal conditions to carry out nearshoring operations:
- Exemption from import, export, and income taxes
- Facilities equipped for repackaging, labeling, assembly, and transformation
- Capacity to consolidate products from various origins
- Possibility of obtaining the “Made in Panama” Certificate of Origin, issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI), as long as transformation or value-added criteria are met
This “Made in Panama” certificate allows products to enter the United States with tariff benefits under the Panama–U.S. Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA).
Global Cargo Panamá: Your Logistics Partner for Nearshoring
At Global Cargo Panamá, we understand that each company has unique needs when implementing a nearshoring strategy. We are the only logistics company in Panama with our own facilities in both the Colón Free Zone and Colon Logistics Park. That’s why we offer flexible, tailored solutions for each case:
Value-Added Services:
- Repackaging, relabeling, and product transformation
- Kit assembly or custom packaging
- Conditioning to comply with destination country regulations
Certification of Origin Coordination:
- Logistics consulting to meet MICI requirements
- Liaison with consultants and agents to obtain the “Made in Panama” certificate
- Documentation, traceability, and support for regulatory audits
Integrated Operations:
- Bonded warehousing (short and long term)
- Container consolidation and deconsolidation
- Cross-docking and distribution to LATAM and the Caribbean
- Ground, sea, and air logistics from Panama’s central hub
Common Nearshoring Use Cases in Panama
- Light electronics: Imported from Asia, partially assembled or customized for export to the U.S. or Latin America
- Fashion and accessories: Repackaging and labeling as “Made in Panama” to meet rules of origin
- Personal care and cosmetics: Packaging adaptations to comply with regional regulations
Nearshoring is more than just a trend—it’s a practical and profitable strategy for companies looking to adapt to the new realities of global trade. With its legal structure, connectivity, and tax advantages, Panama represents a secure and efficient option for executing these processes.
At Global Cargo Panamá, we are ready to be your strategic partner in this transition. We offer not only infrastructure and expertise, but also strategic guidance to maximize the benefits of the “Made in Panama” model. Contact us and discover how nearshoring in Panama can transform your supply chain.