Phytosanitary Certificates from Panama

[Dr. George]

We have a friend in Panama City, Panama who has offered to provide us with some seeds but knows nothing about the process of obtaining a Phytosanitary certificate. Shipment would be to a location in Hawaii that has a valid USDA import permit. Is there anyone in Panama or experienced with the Panamanian bureaucracy who might be able to mentor our friend through the process?

Please feel free to PM me with questions or information.

Thanks for any assistance - gmp

[TimHopper]

Here in the states, we have to hold a license with the Department af Agriculture to obtain a phyto. The license holder calls for an inspection of the material to be shipped, and the phyto is usually written on site. Maybe they can contact the Panama dept of Ag for instruction.

[Jeff in St Pete]

Dr George, If Panama is anything like Costa Rica, the best thing is for your friend to contact a Customs Broker who will take care of all the necessary forms and/or paperwork to ship you the seeds (for a fee, of course).

[Dr. George]

Thanks, guys. Apparently the Panamanian authorities have been less than helpful in the past. Going with a Customers Broker is something that had not occurred to us - worth checking out - thanks.

If anyone else has any direct experience with Panama or other (legal) suggestions for us, please let us know.

Appreciate all of the help - gmp

[amazondk]

My main job over the years has been international shipping and logistics. Jeff is right you need a customs broker to do this. One option would be for you to contact a global company like DHL or Fedex. Their freight management people can probably arrange for this to be done. I would have them contact the Panama office of one of these companies. Panama is much easier to work with in these matters than where I am and I do not see any great complexity to the matter.

dk

[Dr. George]

Thanks, Don - This gives me a start on how to find a customs broker in Panama.

Sent an e-mail to FedEx Trade Networks and we'll see what response we get.

gmp

[amazondk]

If you need I can ask some friends of mine in Miama who may be able to find a customs broker for you.

dk

[Dr. George]

If you need I can ask some friends of mine in Miama who may be able to find a customs broker for you.

dk

That may be very helpful and would be appreciated.

Feel free to PM me if there is personal information to exchange.

Thanks - gmp

[Dr. George]

So here is the no help reply from the folks at FedEx Trade Networks Transport & Brokerage:

"I'm sorry to inform you but this issue has to be handled by Panamanian authorities."

We'll give DHL a try and see if we have any better luck. - gmp