Dominican Republic implements rice tariffs under DR-CAFTA

The 20-year tariff reduction period established under the DR-CAFTA agreement has concluded as of 2025. Because the original tariff objectives have been met, there is no further requirement for negotiation regarding market access.

This conclusion has sparked local debate regarding Decree 693-24 in the Dominican Republic. The decree utilizes the most-favored-nation treatment provisions within the agreement to establish a special tariff and quota for American rice. The decree also applies similar treatment to rice from Nicaragua.

The legal basis for Decree 693-24 is rooted in the Dominican Constitution and national laws, citing the need to protect rice as a fundamental food source. The measure aims to preserve domestic productive capacity to ensure national food sovereignty and nutritional security for the population.