ProDominicana emphasizes the strengthening of the Dominican agricultural sector and the strategies implemented to support exporters amid current market challenges.
"Our main agro-export products remain avocado, mango, banana, and pineapple. However, we are noticing strong momentum in emerging products like pitahaya, whose demand has increased substantially. This diversification is backed by a strong supply of cocoa, where we are a global leader in quality, as well as dried coconut, papaya, oriental and greenhouse vegetables, and roots such as cassava, which helps us reach new consumer segments," stated Segismundo Morey, export director of ProDominicana.
© ProDominicana
One of the main challenges for Dominican exporters is climate change. "In the past, producers knew exactly when to plant and harvest; now, those dates have shifted," Morey explained, emphasizing that growers need to be flexible to adapt to climate, logistical, and market fluctuations.
Regarding logistics, the Dominican Republic benefits from a strategic location with extensive air and sea connectivity. "We have more than 350 international flights daily, which presents a great opportunity to leverage air cargo. Additionally, the port of Manzanillo on the north coast is undergoing a modernization project. This infrastructure is vital to our logistics strategy, as it will allow us to improve transit times to the United States and Europe, ensuring that sensitive products like bananas arrive with peak freshness and quality to end consumers," he added.
© ProDominicana
Regarding foreign trade, Morey said that the Dominican Republic has maintained a competitive advantage thanks to its stability and strategic location. However, he acknowledged that the global situation presents challenges: "We operate in a climate of commercial uncertainty where we can face unexpected commercial obstacles at any time. The challenge, and our strength, lies in turning these changing circumstances into opportunities to boost efficiency and resilience, ensuring that our products continue to reach international markets with the same quality."
Dominican agro-exports primarily target European markets such as Germany, Spain, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, but Morey also emphasized the significance of Caribbean markets. "The Caribbean islands are a natural and strategic partner. This market, driven by the ongoing tourist industry, appreciates the quality and proximity of Dominican products, making it an ideal starting point for export companies," he stated.
© ProDominicana
Finally, the export director outlined ProDominicana's comprehensive assistance model, organized around three strategic pillars: the National Network, which focuses on attracting and raising awareness among producers; the Management of Internationalisation of SMEs, which encourages their formalization and preparation for foreign markets; and the Export Management, which ensures direct links with global buyers and leads participation in fairs and international business rounds throughout the year. "Our commitment is to provide continuous technical support at every stage of the process, facilitating, for example, the obtaining of certifications such as Global G.A.P. or FDA, among others," concluded Morey.
For more information:
Segismundo Morey
ProDominicana
Tel: +1 (809) 530 5535 / +1 829 345 9318
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
www.prodominicana.gob.do
