BRIEFS. commerce

Ministry proposes trade restrictions

LA PRENSA

protection:Mici officials discuss proposed changes to the country’s trade policies.1064374

El Ministerio de Comercio e Industrias (Mici) presented a draft law this week to the private sector that seeks to protect the country's small and medium-size businesses.

The proposal includes the imposition of anti-dumping duties and other safeguard measures allowed by the World Trade Organization (WTO). It also provides for legal assistance to help companies involved in international trade disputes.

The regulations, which were developed with the help of an outside consultant, are being distributed to groups such as the Cámara de Comercio e Industrias and the Asociación Panameña de Exportadores (Apex).

Victor Pérez, a representative of the dairy group Prolacsa, said that it is important to establish support for small businesses, which make up the majority of Panama's companies.

“We must find a formula that allows the law to be used by everyone,” said Pérez, who added that many small companies can not afford legal help to pursue trade-related complaints.