Understanding Tea
Panama’s Tea Trade: Exports and Imports
In the bustling world of international trade, Panama, a country known for its iconic canal and diverse landscapes, has found its place in the global tea market. While not among the largest tea exporters or importers, Panama’s tea trade showcases the nation’s growing affinity for this cherished beverage.
Tea Exports from Panama
In 2021, Panama exported $71.8k worth of tea, positioning itself as the 120th largest tea exporter in the world. Among Panama’s vast array of exports, tea held the 575th rank, signifying its significance in the country’s export portfolio.
The Philippines emerged as the primary destination for Panama’s tea exports, importing tea valued at $52.5k. Saudi Arabia and Barbados closely followed, importing tea worth $16.8k and $848, respectively. Guatemala and Grenada were also notable destinations, collectively importing tea valued at $623 and $340.
Panama experienced remarkable growth in tea exports to the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, and Guatemala between 2020 and 2021. The value of tea exports to the Philippines surged by $52.5k, a notable increase that showcases the rising demand for Panamanian tea. Similarly, Saudi Arabia and Guatemala exhibited growing interest, importing an additional $16.8k and $623 worth of tea, respectively.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Asia | United Arab Emirates | 177 |
| Asia | South Korea | 134 |
| Asia | Philippines | 52,469 |
| Asia | Saudi Arabia | 16,844 |
| Asia | Singapore | 68 |
| Europe | Belgium | 126 |
| Europe | Netherlands | 51 |
| North America | Barbados | 848 |
| North America | Grenada | 340 |
| North America | Guatemala | 623 |
| North America | Honduras | 53 |
| North America | Jamaica | 22 |
Tea Imports to Panama
As a nation that embraces a diverse range of cultural influences, Panama also imports tea to cater to the preferences of its population. In 2021, Panama imported $3.08M worth of tea, ranking as the 114th largest tea importer in the world. Tea imports occupied the 461st position within the country’s overall import list, indicating the nation’s openness to exploring a variety of tea offerings from around the globe.
Colombia stood as the leading supplier of tea to Panama, contributing a significant $1.46M to the country’s tea imports. The United States and China were also instrumental in fulfilling Panama’s tea demands, with tea imports valued at $513k and $473k, respectively. Chile and Argentina played important roles as well, contributing tea imports worth $127k and $92.9k, respectively.
Over the course of 2020 and 2021, Panama experienced notable growth in tea imports from the United States, China, and Ecuador. Compared to the previous year, the country’s tea imports from the United States recorded an impressive increase of $165k, demonstrating the growing popularity of American tea. Additionally, tea imports from China and Ecuador demonstrated significant growth, contributing an additional $102k and $86.8k, respectively.
| Continent | Country | Trade Value |
| Africa | Kenya | 61,425 |
| Africa | Mozambique | 39 |
| Asia | China | 473,053 |
| Asia | Hong Kong | 1,191 |
| Asia | India | 39,278 |
| Asia | Israel | 4,000 |
| Asia | South Korea | 4,413 |
| Asia | Malaysia | 70,709 |
| Asia | Turkey | 19,150 |
| Asia | Chinese Taipei | 8,220 |
| Europe | Belgium | 218 |
| Europe | Germany | 13,011 |
| Europe | Spain | 6,904 |
| Europe | France | 298 |
| Europe | United Kingdom | 2,626 |
| Europe | Italy | 1,934 |
| Europe | Netherlands | 13,508 |
| Europe | Poland | 20,686 |
| Europe | Russia | 246 |
| Europe | Ukraine | 110 |
| North America | Canada | 683 |
| North America | Costa Rica | 42,547 |
| North America | United States | 512,989 |
| South America | Argentina | 92,855 |
| South America | Brazil | 12,098 |
| South America | Chile | 127,484 |
| South America | Colombia | 1,462,935 |
| South America | Ecuador | 86,789 |
| South America | Peru | 245 |
Cultivating Connections Through Tea
Panama’s tea trade journey may not make headlines on the global stage, but it symbolizes the nation’s endeavor to connect with tea enthusiasts worldwide. As Panamanians and tea lovers around the world savor the joys of this timeless beverage, Panama’s presence in the tea trade fosters cultural connections and exchanges.
Against the backdrop of its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, Panama’s tea trade weaves a tale of exploration and growth. As the nation continues to traverse the pathways of the global tea community, its tea exports and imports act as bridges, uniting people with a shared passion for tea.
In conclusion, Panama’s tea trade embodies the spirit of embracing diversity and forging connections across borders. While it may not be a heavyweight in the global tea industry, Panama’s presence signifies the country’s openness to the world, as it continues to cultivate its tea trade, one cup at a time. Through the language of tea, Panama sends a warm invitation to tea enthusiasts worldwide, extending a heartfelt invitation to explore the enchanting flavors and cultural nuances of Panamanian tea.
Data: BACI