DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

The current situation surrounding US tariff restitutions presents a complex challenge for the Dominican Republic. While a new US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) system has launched to return billions in “unconstitutional” tariffs, the political cost of claiming those funds has become a central issue for importers and trade partners.

The new system for requesting refunds of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump went into effect on Monday, 20 April 2026 in the United States, with expected refunds that could reach US$166 billion for US businesses. According to a court filing released on Tuesday, 15 April, US Customs and Border Protection reported that it has completed the initial phase of the refund system, called CAPE. The tool will allow for the consolidation of refunds, ensuring that importers receive a single electronic payment, with interest where applicable, instead of...