Panama City Market Hit Hard by Rising Prices, Fewer Customers

San Felipe Neri Market Faces Sales Slump Amidst Rising Prices Panama City – Vendors at the San Felipe Neri Market are reporting significantly lower sales, a direct consequence of reduced customer traffic and soaring prices for essential goods. The rising cost of living is impacting both merchants and consumers alike, creating a challenging economic climate. "Everything is expensive," laments one vendor, pointing to the escalating costs of plantains, tomatoes, and lettuce. She explains that the price of plantains has nearly doubled, forcing her to reduce her sales volume. Shoppers echo these concerns. "I used to buy five plantains for a dollar; now I can only afford two," says one customer, highlighting the impact on household budgets. The high cost of transporting goods, including air-freighting some produce, is a significant factor driving up prices. The report underscores the difficult decisions faced by both merchants and consumers as they navigate these economic headwinds, illustrating the ripple effect of inflation on everyday life in Panama City.