Panama reopens market for U.S. milled rice

Following meetings with Representative Rick Crawford (R-AR), Panama has reopened its market for U.S. milled rice under the U.S.-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement (TPA). This milestone marks a renewed opportunity for U.S. rice while reinforcing trade ties after a protectionist trade agenda under the previous Panamanian administration. Since 2021, Panama has unilaterally converted the milled rice portion of the TPA’s tariff rate quota to rough rice and have only allowed rough rice to enter duty free. The reopening of the market highlights the important role of international trade agreements in fostering predictable and reliable markets. This move not only benefits U.S. rice farmers by providing them with the committed market access under the TPA, but also offers Panamanian consumers high-quality U.S.-grown rice. “USA Rice appreciates the work of Congressman Rick Crawford for his pivotal role in reopening the U.S. milled rice trade with Panama,” said Peter Bachmann, USA Rice ...