Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormDry (Shelf-stable)
Industry PositionPackaged Staple Food
Market
Short pasta in Panama is supplied by a mix of domestic manufacturing and imports, with long-shelf-life dried products widely distributed through retail and foodservice channels. A major domestic brand is Pastas La Suprema (Empresa Panameña de Alimentos), while imported brands such as Barilla are also present in Panamanian retail. Trade data indicates Panama is a net importer for pasta-type products, with sizable imports recorded under HS 190230 (Other pasta, nes). Market access for imported packaged foods depends heavily on sanitary registration and compliant Spanish labeling aligned with national rules and Codex labeling norms.
Market RoleNet importer with domestic manufacturing presence
Domestic RoleStaple packaged carbohydrate product with domestic brand production (e.g., Pastas La Suprema) complemented by imported brands.
SeasonalityYear-round availability driven by shelf-stable dried product supply and continuous import flows.
Specification
Primary VarietyDried durum-wheat-semolina short pasta (e.g., penne/elbow/shell shapes)
Secondary Variety- Gluten-free short pasta (corn-and-rice based)
- Whole-wheat short pasta
Physical Attributes- Short shapes designed to retain sauces (e.g., elbows, shells, penne ridged)
- Dry, shelf-stable pasta requiring moisture control to prevent caking or quality loss
Compositional Metrics- Durum wheat semolina formulations are common for standard dried pasta; gluten-free variants may use corn and rice.
Packaging- Common retail pack sizes observed include 454 g (1 lb) units for short pasta and 400–500 g packs for imported short pasta.
Supply Chain
Value Chain- Domestic manufacturing (extrusion/drying) or import arrival → importer/brand distribution → wholesale/retail warehousing → supermarkets & e-commerce fulfillment → household and foodservice use
Temperature- Ambient distribution; protect from heat and humidity to maintain dry condition and prevent quality deterioration.
Shelf Life- Long shelf life when kept dry and protected from pests; moisture ingress is a primary spoilage pathway for dried pasta.
Freight IntensityHigh
Transport ModeSea
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighFailure to secure sanitary registration and to present compliant Spanish labeling (including ingredient list, origin, lot identification, expiry, and allergen statements such as gluten/egg where applicable) can delay clearance or lead to rejection/hold at entry for packaged pasta products.Complete sanitary registration and pre-import notification via the APA single-window workflow before shipping; run a label and document pre-check against MINSA/APA requirements (Spanish label artwork, origin, lot/expiry, allergen statement).
Logistics MediumOcean freight volatility and regional shipping disruptions can materially change landed costs for bulky, shelf-stable consumer staples like dried pasta, affecting pricing and replenishment timing.Use forward freight planning and buffer inventory for fast-moving SKUs; diversify sourcing origins and maintain alternative carriers/route options when rates spike.
Food Safety MediumUndeclared allergens (notably cereals containing gluten and, for egg pasta, egg) and label inconsistencies can trigger compliance actions during review, particularly if the Spanish label does not match the registered product information.Align formulation, allergen statements, and Spanish label content with the registered dossier; maintain COA/spec sheets to support inspections and distributor audits.
FAQ
What is the main market role of short pasta in Panama: domestic production or imports?Panama is a net importer for pasta-type products, while also having domestic manufacturing and branding (for example, Pastas La Suprema). Trade data for HS 190230 shows meaningful import value into Panama, indicating imports are an important part of supply alongside local production.
Which countries are key sources for Panama’s imports of short pasta (HS 190230)?For HS 190230 (Other pasta, nes) in 2023, major reported sources into Panama include Other Asia, nes; Peru; the United States; Italy; and China.
What are the key regulatory steps to import packaged short pasta into Panama?Importers generally need the product’s sanitary registration and must file an import notification through Panama’s food single-window system (APA). Labels used for registration are expected to be in Spanish and aligned with national rules and Codex labeling norms, including ingredients, origin, lot/expiry, and allergen statements where applicable.
Are health-oriented short pasta variants (like whole wheat or gluten-free) available in Panama?Yes. Retail listings in Panama include whole-wheat pasta variants and gluten-free short pasta variants, indicating active availability of these options in the market.