Duarte Province faces agro-industrial challenges under DR-CAFTA

The Duarte Province in the Dominican Republic faces significant challenges and opportunities regarding its agro-industrial development, particularly in light of the DR-CAFTA agreement. During the “Duarte Province, 2040: Vision & Leadership” conference, experts highlighted the province's strategic role as a major commercial and agro-industrial engine in the Northeast region.

Duarte is a critical hub for rice production, accounting for approximately 60% of the rice consumed in the Dominican Republic. In 2025, the province contributed more than half of the nation's 14 million quintals produced. Additionally, the province is a major cocoa producer; cocoa exports from the area exceeded US$125 million during the first nine months of 2026. Total exports for the province reached US$188.7 million in 2025, representing a year-on-year growth of nearly 47%.

A primary concern raised is the impact of DR-CAFTA on domestic rice production. Under the agreement, US rice enters the Dominican market without tariffs or volume limits as of January 1, 2025, creating potential pressure on local producers.