Dominican exports have demonstrated robust growth this year, with figures reaching an impressive US$5.64 billion to May 2025, driven by increased shipments to key markets such as the United States and Haiti, the Customs Agency reports.
In a remarkable achievement, Dominican exports hit a historic high in May 2025, totaling US$1.378 million. This represents a significant 13.4% increase compared to the same month last year, underscoring the resilience of the nation’s trade sector amidst ongoing geopolitical and commercial pressures impacting global commerce.
Cumulatively, for the first five months of the year, exports have maintained a strong upward trajectory, reaching the aforementioned US$5.64 billion. This accumulated figure reflects an 8.6% growth rate. Free trade zones have been a significant contributor to this success, accounting for 62.5% of total exports, equivalent to approximately US$3.52 billion.
The Customs Agency (DGA) reports a 4.7% increase in exports to the United States in May 2025. These were up from US$657.6 million in May 2024 to $688.5 million in 2025. The DR exported US$93.3 million to Haiti, the country’s second-largest market, a 14.9% surge from the previous year.
The milestone comes amid global geopolitical and trade tensions, with the government attributing the growth to an active foreign trade promotion strategy, including exporter training programs and mutual recognition agreements with other nations.
Overall, key export growth drivers were led by gold, with US$258 million exported to India, for a 141% jump. Other top exports were:
• Medical instruments and devices (US$171.6 million, +5.1%)
• Cacao (47.9% growth, ranking as the third-largest export)
• Tobacco (+10.7%)
• Cane sugar (+13.2%)
For the first five months of 2025, total exports reached US$5.64 billion, reflecting an 8.6% cumulative growth. Free zones accounted for 62.5% of this total, contributing US$3.52 billion.
Yayo Sanz Lovatón, director general of the Customs Agency, emphasized the role of strategic policies in sustaining growth despite global headwinds. “These results underscore our commitment to expanding trade networks and leveraging free zones as engines of economic development,” he stated. He highlighted the importance of diversifying markets and strengthening global partnerships to mitigate risks from international volatility.
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Presidency
Customs Agency
11 June 2025