What Happened
The Instituto de Mercadeo Agropecuario (IMA) announced that agroferias — farmers’ markets where producers sell directly to consumers — will resume operations on Monday, March 16 at multiple locations across Panama. The agency said it has published schedules indicating when sales will begin at the different points of sale.
Background
Agroferias are a regular distribution channel in Panama that connect small and medium agricultural producers directly with consumers. They are commonly used to improve access to fresh fruits, vegetables and other farm products while helping producers reach buyers without intermediaries. The temporary suspension that preceded this resumption is not detailed in the IMA notice.
Schedules and Where to Find Them
The IMA’s announcement refers to published timetables for each agroferia location, including start times for sales. The agency did not list specific hours or site-by-site details in the notice summarized here. Consumers and producers seeking exact locations and hours should consult IMA’s official communications channels for the full schedule and any updates or health-and-safety measures that may apply.
What This Means
The restart of agroferias allows Panamanian producers to re-engage with local markets and provides consumers renewed access to fresh, locally grown produce. For many small farmers and vendors, agroferias are an important source of income; for shoppers they can offer competitive prices and seasonal options. The resumption may also affect local supply chains and retail availability in the short term.
Practical Advice
Shoppers planning to attend agroferias should verify the precise start times and locations through IMA notices before traveling. Producers and vendors who plan to participate should confirm registration requirements or any operational conditions issued by the IMA.