Cabinet approves additional rice import amid El Niño effects

Panama's government has authorized an additional import quota for paddy rice, a crucial step to safeguard the nation's supply and meet consumer demand. The decision by the Cabinet Council comes in response to the adverse effects of the El Niño phenomenon, which has disrupted agricultural production projections. The measure, formalized through Decree 9-26, permits the importation of 786,000 quintals of paddy rice, with a deadline set for September 15, 2026.

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The measure was established through Decree 9-26, which authorizes the entry of 786 thousand quintals of paddy rice, with a deadline of September 15, 2026.

This action addresses significant challenges faced by farmers, including delayed planting seasons and hindered crop development in various production zones across the country due to climatic variability. The recommendation for this additional import contingent was put forth by the Agricultural Food Chain Committee for Rice during a meeting on May 26, 2026. Representatives from producer groups, agro-industrial sectors, importers, and government authorities analyzed current inventories and harvest forecasts, concluding that a new quota was essential to guarantee the grain's availability until late September 2026. Rice is a staple in the Panamanian diet and a key component of the basic food basket, making this measure vital for strengthening national food security.

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The decision responds to delays in the start of planting and affects the development of the crop recorded in different producing areas of the country due to climate variability.

In parallel efforts to bolster the agricultural sector, the Cabinet Council also approved Decree N.° 8-26, introducing modifications to the national import tariff for rice. This decree establishes 11 new tariff classifications and removes one existing one. These changes, based on technical analyses by the Tariff Commission of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, aim to more accurately identify and classify rice varieties that are not cultivated within Panama. This includes specialty rices such as arborio, bomba, riso, jasmine, basmati, carnaroli, kokuho, and nishiki, which are primarily used in the culinary industry. The updated classifications are expected to streamline the importation process for these specific products and their derivatives, benefiting sectors like restaurants and gastronomic establishments. Authorities emphasized that these combined actions are designed to ensure proper product distribution, promote efficient resource use, and maintain a balance between domestic production and market demands.

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It was determined that it was necessary to approve a new contingent to ensure the supply of the grain until the third week of September 2026.