Ecua-Andino Panama Hat

Ecua-Andino is a renowned Ecuadorian brand specializing in the production of Panama hats, a traditional brimmed straw hat of Ecuadorian origin. Founded in 1985 by Alejandro Lecaro and Édgar Sánchez, the company has become a significant exporter of these handcrafted hats, with approximately 200,000 exported each year. The hats are made from toquilla straw, sourced from the Carludovica palmata plant, known for its softness and durability. Over 3,500 artisans across five provinces in Ecuador contribute to the production process, ensuring the preservation of traditional weaving techniques. Despite the name 'Panama hat,' these hats originated in Ecuador and gained international popularity after being associated with Panama during the construction of the Panama Canal. The art of weaving the traditional Ecuadorian toquilla hat was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists on 5 December 2012, highlighting its cultural significance.