The government of Panama has chosen a consortium led by Morpho (Safran group) that comprises secure printing specialist Thomas Greg & Sons and IAFIS, Morpho’s trusted partner for implementation and management of biometric projects in Latin America, to supply ePassports.

Under the contract, Morpho will supply biometric enrolment stations for capturing passport applicants’ images, fingerprints and signatures. It also includes the provision of a latest-generation identity management and document personalisation system to ensure secure issuance of ePassports. In addition, the company will handle system maintenance over a five-year period.

The ePassports will feature laser-engraved data pages made of polycarbonate. According to Morpho they will enable Panama to offer an enhanced level of security to its citizens by safeguarding against identity theft, protecting privacy and ensuring secure identification of passport holders.

“We chose Morpho based on its sound experience in identity management, biometrics and secure electronic documents. This is a key project for Panama and we are confident in Morpho’s ability to deliver a secure solution that meets industry standards,” says Carmen A Bernárdez, Panama’s National Passport director.

“Morpho has delivered advanced biometric systems in 18 Latin American countries to date,” says Jean-Paul Jainsky, chairman and chief executive officer of Morpho. “We are very enthusiastic about supporting Panama’s government in its move to implement a modern and highly secure passport solution.”

The first passports are expected to be issued in early 2013.