Panama Safemobility

The new proposal is Bill 656 which is under review by the Government of Panama with the goal of implementing minimum standard specifications for safety. The ultimate purpose is to guarantee safe ground transportation in the country and if passed all-new imported cars must comply with these standards.

This bill sets the following standards, among others, and all-new imported vehicles must have:

• ABS  - Anti-Lock Braking System
• ESC – Electronic Stability Control
• Alternate tire replacement system or a replacement spare tire.
• Front and side airbags for driver and passengers
• Side impact bars
• Bumper reinforcement (front and back)
• Headrests on every passenger seat
• Bodywork with programmed deformation

Another important topic that is being addressed is pollution prevention and the bill focuses on the following requirements:

• A certificate of technical-mechanical review and control of pollutant gases (or the equivalent term from the country of origin), a guarantee by a competent authority of the exporting country that was issued during the thirty (30) calendar days prior to the date of exportation and shipment of the vehicle 
• A certificate of homologation of the technical-mechanical review and control of pollutant gases from the importing country that was issued by a review center duly authorized by the Land Traffic and Transportation Authority of Panama (ATTT).

If you are interested in keeping up to date on the automotive sector in Panama, contact your USEAC Business Specialist or contact Kenneth Delvalle, Commercial Assistant in Panama by email at Kenneth.Delvalle@trade.gov.