Panama

The report examines the economic landscape of Panama and provides information on major monetary indicators, foreign trade and government finance. The economy expanded in real terms in 2023, driven by private consumption, government spending,…

The normalisation of society and increased tourism supported sales recovery of beauty and personal care in 2023. However, Panama continued to be negatively impacted by global inflationary pressures. Its high dependence on imports put upward pressure…

The population increase in Panama from 2021 to 2040 will be driven by positive natural change, with births outweighing deaths. Improved living standards and the arrival of retired migrants will drive ageing, with the rise of a senior demographic…

Supply chain challenges and higher global cellulose raw material prices led to higher average retail prices for tissue and hygiene products in 2023. Despite inflation, the reopening of society favoured products that offer convenience as lifestyles…

Home care is registered a strong performance in 2023, given the favourable macroeconomic environment in the country. Laundry care and surface care constitute the two largest categories, both of which saw steady consumer demand over the review period.…

Corruption undermines economic freedom in Panama and protests have been widespread, although state finances are strengthening. Economic momentum has slowed, but foreign investment is increasing and the Panama Canal continues to play an important role…

Soft drinks consumption achieved solid growth in 2023. This was based on strong growth of both carbonates and bottled water, which combined account for the lion’s share of market volume sales. Soft drinks is also benefiting from the recovery of…

Hot drinks sales achieved strong growth in 2023. While the largest category coffee performed best, growth was not as strong as had been expected. In addition to category maturity, sales were also hampered by significant global price hikes. Economic…

Panama’s sales of staple foods are buoyed by extensive urbanisation, the rise of modern grocery retailers and wider product selection. However, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the resumption of pre-pandemic lifestyles, Russia’s invasion of…

Cooking ingredients and meals slowed in volume terms in 2023 while value sales rose strongly due to rising inflation. Substantial unit price increases put significant pressure on household incomes, resulting in a more conservative approach to…