Panama Black Weekend 2025 drives significant growth in local and international spending, according to Visa data

Panama Black Weekend, held from October 3-5, 2025, demonstrated outstanding performance in commercial activity from both Panamanians and international visitors. According to Visa data for the seven-day period surrounding the event—compared to the same period in 2024, when it took place from September 13-15—significant increases were observed in the retail shopping categories.

During the event, Visa identified and analyzed travel and consumption trends on the main tourist-generating corridors from the Americas to Panama.

In the domestic market, spending with Visa cards issued in Panama reflected an increase of more than 20% in the retail shopping categories, confirming a greater willingness to buy on the part of Panamanians and greater dynamism in national commercial activity during the week of the event.

International performance was equally positive. In-person spending by visitors from Panama's main travel corridors increased by 30% across the same consumer categories. Within this tourism-trade flow, some outstanding results stand out: purchases by Guatemalan visitors increased by more than 80%, Costa Ricans showed an increase of almost 50%, Hondurans a growth of more than 20%, and Ecuadorians an increase of almost 5%. These figures reflect Panama's growing appeal as a regional shopping destination, supported by its connectivity, commercial offerings, and strategic location.

“At Visa, we reaffirm our commitment to Panama’s economic development and to initiatives that strengthen trade and tourism in the region. The results observed during Panama Black Weekend 2025 reflect the positive impact that can be generated when the private sector collaborates strategically to attract visitors and boost commercial activity. These findings, supported by our aggregate analysis of travel and consumption trends, demonstrate that Panama continues to consolidate its position as a regional hub for shopping and value-added experiences,” highlighted Liz Marie Pareja, General Manager of Visa Panama, Nicaragua, and Belize.

“The Panamanian Association of Shopping Centers APACECOM works constantly to position Panama as an attractive shopping destination, promoting shopping centers regionally and attracting international buyers who positively impact commercial activity,” shared Bonny Sánchez, president of APACECOM.

Source: Visa