In the framework of the project: "Capacities and exchange of experiences in the region: clarifying processes in customs and border control to promote inter-institutional coordination for the creation and articulation of policies in search of the effective implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty ( ATT) ", the Arias Foundation for Peace and Human Progress held a first meeting on 17-18 January, 2018. The meeting was attended by members of civil society and representatives of government institutions of Panama, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala. The event allowed the different representatives to share experiences on the processes of arms control in customs and borders, as well as promoting inter-institutional coordination for the creation and articulation of the policies in this area. Participants also shared information on the use of specialized equipment in ports for the detection of illegal weapons and intrusive vehicle verification. This included a visit to the Port of Manzanillo (MIT, in Spanish) in Panama to learn about the procedures developed by Customs to locate the possible trafficking of arms transiting the Panama Canal and their detection through scanners.