Despite its name, Panama hats actually originated in which country?

Despite their name, Panama hats originated in Ecuador, where skilled artisans in towns such as Montecristi and Cuenca have woven them for centuries using fibers from the toquilla palm. The misleading name arose because the hats passed through the Isthmus of Panama before being exported to destinations around the world. As a result, the name "Panama hat" reflects the hats' point of international trade rather than their true Ecuadorian origin. During the construction of the Panama Canal, laborers and travelers were often seen wearing the hats, further cementing their association with Panama.