Dominican Agriculture Minister Oliverio Espaillat pushes mechanization, launches support program

Agriculture Minister Francisco Oliverio Espaillat emphasised that mechanisation is essential to raise the competitiveness of Dominican agriculture. Speaking at an AMCHAMDR event, he highlighted historic production levels, reduction of under‑nourishment, and the National Mechanisation Programme (PRONAMEC) as key pillars alongside extension services and food‑security measures.

In a separate visit to Dajabón, Espaillat met producers and announced a series of measures: new equipment for regional offices, conversion of contract staff to permanent positions, and a technification programme that will channel financing from the Agricultural Bank, Banreservas and other lenders for machinery, irrigation systems, drones and other modern technologies. He also pledged road repairs, cattle‑feed supplies, and scholarships for youth in agricultural studies, noting that the Dominican Republic has dropped below the FAO’s hunger threshold.