Dominican Republic Increases U.S. Farm Product Imports

Economic Growth Boosts Demand for U.S. Agricultural Exports

U.S. agricultural exports to the Dominican Republic (DR) have reached $2 billion in 2024, doubling since 2007 under the CAFTA-DR agreement. The DR's economy and food industry continue to grow, boosting demand for imported agricultural products.

“The full implementation of CAFTA-DR in 2025 will provide further opportunities for U.S. exporters,” trade analysts note. The DR is now the 14th-largest destination for U.S. agricultural exports, with significant growth in meat, dairy, baked goods, and fresh produce.

Key Drivers of Growth

1. Economic Expansion: The DR’s GDP is projected to grow by 5% in 2025.

2. Tourism Boom: Over 11 million visitors in 2024 increased demand for high-quality food.

3. Retail and E-commerce Growth: Online food purchases are projected to rise 18% by 2027.

Major U.S. Agricultural Exports

• Meat & Poultry: U.S. pork exports reached $277 million, and poultry exports hit $128 million.

• Dairy & Beef: The U.S. holds a 25% share in dairy imports and supplies 96% of beef imports.

• Fresh Fruit & Bakery Items: U.S. exports of fresh fruit increased fourfold, and baked goods imports grew by 10%.

Trade Policy Outlook

With CAFTA-DR phasing out all tariffs by 2025, U.S. exporters are well-positioned to expand in the Dominican market. The country’s rising middle class and evolving food industry further support strong trade growth in the coming years.