PANAMA is still awaiting a reply from the Council of Ministers of Central American Economic Integration (Comieco) on the suspension of exports of juices from Guatemala to Panama.

On  October  30 Panama banned the importation of 69 juice brands due to concerns about their ingredients.

Panama regulations mandate that drinks marketed as fruit juices must be at least 25 percent pulp, and that the content must be verified.

Guatemala has asked for the council to convene a meeting to discuss the subject.

Minister of Trade and Industry Melitón Arrocha said that so far he has not received a formal response.

Minister of Trade and Industry Melitón Arrocha said that so far he has not received a formal response