Panama’s T-shirt Imports Surge in Early 2025: Market Trends and Key Suppliers
According to trade data compiled by NBD DATA
The imported products primarily include men’s, women’s, and children’s short-sleeve cotton shirts, such as CAMISETAS DE CABALLERO and CAMISETAS PARA NIÑA. Some shipments were labeled as CAMISETA POLO ORGÁNICA and BASIC WOMEN FIT REGULAR T-SHIRT, indicating a blend of fast-fashion and sportswear categories.
Overview of Import Performance
Between January and June 2025, Panama recorded 6 import transactions of T-shirts with a total value of USD 57,211.89. The imported volume reached about 1.23 tons, equivalent to 4,945 units of apparel from 3 partner countries and involving 4 importers and 4 exporters.
The month of May 2025 was the most active, contributing 64% of total imports, with over 3,200 T-shirts brought into Panama. This spike reflects replenishment of seasonal retail stock before the mid-year shopping period.
Key Importers
Panama’s T-shirt import market is relatively concentrated, with a few major companies leading the activity:
SPORTLINE AMERICA, INC. – 3 shipments totaling USD 49,342, mainly in partnership with Network Sales & Logistic S.A. The company focuses on sportswear and active lifestyle apparel.
PRICESMART PANAMA S.A. – 1 shipment valued at USD 5,707, importing bulk apparel lines for retail stores.
TEX FASHION GLOBAL, S.A. – 1 shipment worth USD 1,695, primarily fashion-oriented T-shirts for local distribution.
COMERCIALIZADORA 5 J, S.A. – smaller shipments totaling USD 467, focusing on regional commercial supply.
Although the total number of importers remains limited, their combined influence covers the core distribution channels in Panama City and Colón, including retail chains, duty-free stores, and sportswear outlets.
Main Suppliers
On the export side, the supply chain is equally consolidated, dominated by regional and multinational apparel manufacturers:
NETWORK SALES & LOGISTIC S.A. – based in Latin America, the firm supplied USD 49,342 worth of T-shirts to SPORTLINE AMERICA, INC.
-
INTERNACIONAL DE DOTACIONES J M S.A.S.
– a Colombian supplier specializing in uniform and workwear products, shipped USD 467. PRICESMART, INC. – a U.S.-based multinational, exported USD 5,707 to its Panamanian subsidiary.
STF GROUP S.A. – one of Colombia’s leading fashion groups, delivered USD 1,695 worth of branded T-shirts.
The presence of Colombian and U.S. exporters emphasizes Panama’s position as a retail and logistics hub, benefiting from its strategic location and free-trade agreements with neighboring countries.
Trade Patterns and Market Insights
The trade data from NBD DATA
Notably, the average unit price of imported T-shirts during this period was approximately USD 11.6 per kilogram, or roughly USD 11.5 per dozen units, aligning with regional wholesale pricing for mid-range apparel.
The mix of sportswear, casual cotton shirts, and basic unisex designs also reveals Panama’s growing demand for versatile, affordable garments that cater to both local consumers and re-export markets in Central America.
Market Outlook
While the total trade volume remains modest, the steady import growth shows that Panama’s domestic apparel demand is recovering, supported by rising consumer spending and regional trade facilitation.
In the second half of 2025, analysts at NBD DATA
Overall, T-shirts remain one of the most stable and flexible apparel categories in Panama’s import structure—balancing affordability, brand diversity, and regional trade advantages.
Data source:
This article is based on official trade data analyzed by NBD DATA
