Dominican Republic Leads Regional Pharma Market While Recording Highest Fuel Prices

The Dominican Republic now records the most expensive gasoline in Central America. Since June 13, the government raised the premium price by six pesos to RD$341.10 per gallon (≈ $5.79) and the regular price by three pesos to RD$310.50 per gallon (≈ $5.27). All neighboring markets price fuel lower, with Panama offering the cheapest rates.

At the same time, the country is the largest pharmaceutical market in the Central America‑Caribbean sub‑region. An IQVIA study shows the Dominican Republic accounts for 25.1 % of regional drug sales, amounting to about $1.375 billion in 2026 and posting a 12.1 % year‑over‑year growth. Guatemala and Costa Rica follow, together making up 60 % of the market.

These trends highlight the Dominican Republic's mixed economic positioning: strong consumer demand in health‑care alongside costly fuel that may pressure households and transport sectors.