The Ministry of Agriculture has authorized the import of plantains to prevent them from being sold for up to RD$30 each at retail level. In Santiago wholesale markets, plantains have been selling for RD$12-RD$20 per unit. Ministry spokesman Pedro Jimenez said that the Ministry is aware that the current shortages could continue and in order to protect consumers from having to pay RD$25-RD$30 for a plantain, imports from Costa Rica have been allowed on a temporary basis.
In the Dominican Republic crop yields have been lower than normal due to the high temperatures and the prolonged drought.
http://www.diariolibre.com/economia/gobierno-autoriza-importar-platanos-para-evitar-que-se-vendan-a-rd-25-y-rd-30-la-unidad-EL1508327