Panamanian Agro-fairs Feed Thousands, Boost Local Economy

Panamanian Government's Agro-fairs Provide Food Security and Economic Relief in Veraguas Santiago, Veraguas, Panama – The Panamanian government's Instituto de Mercadeo Agropecuario (IMA) recently held two successful agro-fairs in Santiago, Veraguas, directly benefiting 15,000 people. The initiative, part of the government's 'Con Paso Firme' program, aimed to make basic food staples accessible at fair prices. The agro-fairs offered a wide variety of goods, including 300,000 pounds of rice, cooking oil, onions, and fresh vegetables. "The agro-fairs are a lifeline for many families," said one participant. "The prices are much lower than in the stores, and it helps us stretch our budgets." The program also supports local farmers and entrepreneurs by providing a platform to sell their products. The event's success demonstrates the government's commitment to food security and economic development in rural communities. The positive impact on both consumers and producers underscores the value of such initiatives in ensuring equitable access to essential resources.