In 2013, foreign sales increased by 85% compared to 2012, generating foreign exchange earnings of $76 million.
The growth in demand from Asian countries coupled with the rise in international prices explain the sharp increase in shrimp exports from Panama, which is now seeking to increase its presence in new markets.
"It is also looking to increase its presence in the U.S.
The dynamism that has reappeared in exports of marine products is marked by a 88% increase in the sales of shrimp.
During the first three months of 2013, fishing activities reported the highest economic growth in the country, totaling $38.7 million versus $28.2 million reported in 2012.
Data published by the Comptroller General's Office shows that the increase in fishing activities is due to increased capture of various commercial species, favored by an increase in the international demand for products from industrial fishing. Some segments were more dynamic than others, as in the case of shrimp, reporting a 87.7% increase in exports, compared with the same period in 2012.