Dominican Republic seeks U.S. negotiations to protect rice and trade tariffs

Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader has entered negotiations with the United States government to protect the nation's domestic rice production. The sector is considered a strategic priority for the country's economy, internal supply, and food security.

Abinader expressed concerns regarding the lack of fair and reciprocal treatment concerning recent tariff rates. He noted that the 12.5% tariff imposed by the U.S. on exports from the Dominican Republic does not align with the reciprocity expected under the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). The President stated his aspiration is to return to the traditional zero percent rate.

Domestically, the government is working with the Ministry of Agriculture to implement mechanization programs aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing the need for foreign labor. Other priorities include technical training, water access, and strengthening the agricultural sector's resilience against climate change and drought.