Exports without copper grew in the first half of the year

export of goods without copper reached an FOB figure of USD 581.2 during the first half of 2023, the Ministry of Trade and Industry reported.

Of this amount, USD 448.1 corresponds to deliveries from the manufacturing sector agriculture, agro-industry, industry and aquaculturewhich achieved a growth of 4.4% compared to the same period in 2022.

We also have to consider the $133 million that corresponds registered production export from free zones and the Panama Pacifico Economic Zone.

In terms of commercial schemes, excluding copper, 79.3% of accumulated exports in June 2023 were sold to countries with a current trade agreement.

In the case of trade blocs as export destinations, European Union is in first place, followed by the Central American Common Market (MCCA) and the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI).

While copper and bananas they continue to lead exports, accumulated for the first half of 2023. These products represented 74.5% and 4.3% of the total amount, respectively.

They are followed by exports of items such as: medicines with 1.6%, raw teak with 1.5%, and iron or steel scrap with 1.4%.

As for the main export markets are China, Japan and South Korea, mainly thanks to on the export of porphyry copper.

When copper exports are excluded, the United States remains firmly the main destination, followed by sales to the Colon Free Zone.

Exports to the Netherlands remain in third and fourth place, it appears Indiadue to the export of teak.