Panamanians are drinking less alcohol than they used to, signaling a broader shift toward health, fitness, and mindful living. According to recent data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC), beer production in Panama dropped 12% between January and August 2025 compared to the same period last year – falling from 183.3 million liters to 160.9 million.
The decline isn’t isolated to beer. Overall alcoholic beverage production has fallen 13%, aligning with an 11% decrease in tax revenue from sales (ITBMS) in the first half of 2025. Economists attribute this to both a softer economy and changing consumption habits among Panamanians, especially younger generations.
A Cultural Shift: Wellness Over Weekends
For many, the decline in beer consumption reflects more than just economic pressures. Younger Panamanians are adopting a more health-conscious lifestyle. Fitness, nutrition, and moderation are replacing the heavy drinking culture that once defined social weekends.
Aramis Cornejo, spokesperson for Panama’s Association of Restaurants, Bars, and Nightclubs, explained, “The new generation is focused on fitness and looking good. They don’t consume alcohol the way their parents did. They still seek experiences, but with moderation – they prefer low-alcohol or non-alcoholic options.”
Craft beers and mocktails are gaining popularity, while sugary mixers and industrial lagers are losing ground. In areas like Torio and Boquete, where expats and wellness-focused Panamanians often gather, cafés and restaurants are increasingly offering kombucha, local herbal infusions, and alcohol-free beers.
Economic and Regulatory Pressures
Another factor influencing the drop is the 44% increase in the Selective Consumption Tax (ISC) on alcoholic beverages, approved in mid-2024. While designed to increase government revenue, the measure has pressured beverage companies and reduced beer demand.
The country’s leading brewery, Cervecería Nacional, recently cited lower consumption as one of the reasons behind workforce reductions of about 260 employees. The economic slowdown following the mining sector closure and lower construction activity has further limited disposable income, leading consumers to prioritize essentials over leisure.
Healthier Habits, Evolving Social Scenes
Despite the slowdown in bars, restaurants report that the shift hasn’t necessarily hurt business. Domingo de Obaldía, representative of Panama’s Restaurant Association, noted that beer isn’t the top-selling item in most restaurants. “We haven’t felt a major impact – dining out remains steady. The change is mostly visible in bars,” he said.
In many social hubs like Boquete and Pedasí, a new kind of leisure culture is emerging. Outdoor activities, fitness events, and social cafés are replacing traditional drinking spots. It’s part of a wider movement where wellness and community experiences are becoming the new form of recreation.
What It Means for Property Investors and Expats
For investors and expats, this shift toward health and balance signals opportunities in wellness tourism, organic cafés, and fitness-centered hospitality projects. Demand for spaces that cater to outdoor lifestyles – such as eco-retreats, yoga lodges, and healthy dining venues – continues to grow in regions like Cambutal and Boquete, where nature and community living thrive together.
While reduced alcohol consumption may affect nightlife businesses, it strengthens the long-term appeal of Panama’s lifestyle sectors built around health, sustainability, and quality of life.
Casa Solution: Your Partner in Panama’s Changing Lifestyle Landscape
At Casa Solution Real Estate, we help clients find properties that match their vision – whether that’s a peaceful mountain home in Boquete or a beachfront retreat in Cambutal. If you’re looking to invest in Panama’s emerging wellness and eco-lifestyle market, reach out today.
Contact Casa Solution Real Estate
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Written on November 8, 2025
