The multinational plans to invest US$30mn to restart operations in Changuinola, creating 5,000 jobs in a phased approach that underscores the banana industry’s importance to Panama’s economy
Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture – the country’s biggest business association – has welcomed the return of banana giant Chiquita, which was confirmed over the weekend.
The multinational expects its operations in Bocas del Toro to be back up and running “no later than February 2026,” according to reports – reversing its recent dramatic departure following a protracted and highly disruptive labour dispute.
Late last week, Panamanian government officials confirmed that talks with the company were underway and that the multinational was poised to return to the country, restoring operations and thousands of jobs at its Changuinola production hub.
Underlining the importance of the banana business to Panama’s economy, the country’s president Jose Raul Mulino even travelled to Brasilia to meet with the owners of Chiquita Brands International.
According to various news outlets, Chiquita now plans to spend US$30mn in order to restart that operation.
It is understood Chiquita will reinstate 3,000 workers during the first phase of its return, and these will be employed to bring its plantations back to the required condition.
A further 2,000 workers will be given jobs in harvesting and packing during a later, second phase.
