PANAMA CITY, PANAMA – USA Rice attended the ExpoComer trade show this week to assess the potential for future exhibition opportunities at the multi-sector trade show, now in its forty-first year. Organized by the Panamanian Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture (CCIAP), ExpoComer showcases a diverse array of industries, including food, beverages, and agricultural products; textiles, clothing, and accessories; and technology and electronics.
USA Rice staff Asiha Grigsby, senior director of international promotion of the Western Hemisphere, and Karah Janevicius, director of international trade policy, attended the trade show to connect with key stakeholders including, millers, farmers, and retailers of the Panamanian rice industry. In addition to meeting with industry members, Grigsby and Janevicius met with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA/FAS) in Panama, to discuss trade barriers as well as areas of opportunity, including the possibility of expanding USA Rice’s promotional presence in the region.
“This is a promising market for U.S. rice, and we are excited to explore future opportunities for collaboration and growth,” said Grigsby. “We’re encouraged by the positive reception from the Panamanian rice industry and look forward to working together to overcome challenges and increase the demand for U.S. rice here.”
José Manuel Paredes, president of the ExpoComer Organizing Committee, strongly encouraged USA Rice to participate in the 2026 show. He emphasized that such involvement would help raise awareness of U.S. rice and other agricultural products in Panama, strengthening trade ties between the two nations.
Grigsby and Janevicius also traveled to Chepo, a region outside of Panama City to tour Argosilos, a state-of-the-art vertically integrated rice company that combines research and development, drying, milling, distribution, and marketing under one roof. The visit provided valuable insight into Panama’s rice production capabilities and future growth potential.
Panama imported more than $50 million of U.S. rice last year, making it the ninth largest export market in the Western Hemisphere.