Banana sector in Bocas del Toro, Panama, makes strides to bounce back after 2025 crisis
The banana sector in Bocas del Toro, Panama, is showing clear signs of recovery. Following the labor crisis in 2025, the region has made significant strides through the reactivation of production, the creation of over 5,000 jobs, and the upcoming restart of banana exports.
The numbers were reported by Panama's Minister of Commerce and Industries, Julio Moltó, during the local government's Cabinet Council. During the session, the Secretary of State highlighted the progress achieved less than a year after the province’s banana sector faced one of the most critical moments in its history.
According to Moltó, between four and five months after operations in the area resumed at the end of 2025, 5,065 jobs have been recovered, and over 12,300 acres of cultivation have been reactivated.
Packing plants in Bocas del Toro are already operating in double shifts, while the restart of shipments to international markets is expected to begin in the coming weeks. The ministry reported that bananas play an important role in the local economy and are considered one of the country's main agricultural export products.
“The recovery of the sector marks a new milestone for the Panamanian banana industry and for the economy of Bocas del Toro,” Moltó indicated.
Banana crisis in Bocas del Toro
In April 2025, a labor strike completely paralyzed banana production in Bocas del Toro, resulting in the suspension of operations of multinational Chiquita in the province.
The impasse resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs and a strong economic and social impact that threatened the existence of the local banana industry.
The social demonstration involved various unions, including Sitraibana, and was triggered by a reform of the social security system that threatened pension benefits in the sector. The crisis lasted until June 11, 2025, when an agreement between the company and the unions led to the end of the strike.
Subsequently, the President of Panama, José Raúl Mulino, led the negotiations that facilitated an agreement with Chiquita, laying the groundwork for the recovery of banana activity.
The impact of the crisis was reflected clearly in the country's exports. According to figures provided by the local government, bananas went from over 17 percent of Panamanian exports in March 2025 to 12 percent in May, closing the year with a meager 7.5 percent.
*Main image courtesy of the Ministry of Commerce and Industries of Panama; other images are referential.
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