Panama Medical Equipment Import Process (USA → Panama)
This guide helps Panaman hospitals, clinics, distributors, and licensed importers understand the process of importing pre-owned medical equipment from the United States.
Export-Ready Documentation
All documentation prepared to support Panaman customs requirements
Faster Clearance
Reduced customs delays through accurate pre-shipment documentation
Export Support
From quote to shipment, we prepare equipment for export from the USA
Regulatory Authority: Ministerio de Salud de Panamá (MINSA)
Pre-owned medical equipment can be legally imported into Panama with proper documentation and regulatory compliance.
Classification System
Class I-IV based on GHTF risk classification
Registration Timeframe
3-6 months depending on device class
License Validity
5 years with renewal option
Local Representative
Required for foreign manufacturers
Registration Fees
- • Class I: USD 50
- • Class II: USD 100
- • Class III-IV: USD 200-500
Import Duties and Taxes
Import duties typically 0-15% for medical equipment under Panama's free trade agreements with the USA
VAT Rate
7% (ITBMS)
Additional Charges
- • Customs handling fees
- • Sanitary registration fees
- • Port charges
Shipping to Panama
Air Freight
Transit: 5-10 business days
Airport: Tocumen International Airport (PTY), Panama City
Sea Freight
Transit: 4-6 weeks
Port: Port of Balboa (Pacific) / Colón (Atlantic)
Buyer Responsibility Notice
Buyer is responsible for all Panaman regulatory approvals including MINSA registration, customs clearance, duties, and post-import certification. Rotala International provides export documentation from the USA; all Panaman import compliance is the buyer's responsibility.
Required Documents Checklist
From Rotala International (USA)
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
Required in Panama
- MINSA Sanitary Registration (Registro Sanitario)
- Certificate of Free Sale from country of origin
- Quality certificates (ISO 13485 preferred)
- Spanish labeling requirements
Ready to Import Medical Equipment to Panama?
Browse our available inventory or contact us for a personalized Panama export quote.