The Dominican Republic’s tobacco product exports have reached an impressive US$1.34 billion annually, a figure that significantly surpasses pre-pandemic levels. President Luis Abinader announced the milestone during his “La Semanal con la Prensa” address on 21 July 2025, highlighting the industry’s robust recovery and growth.
This represents a remarkable US$400 million increase compared to 2019, firmly establishing tobacco as one of the country’s top three export products. Dominican cigars are globally renowned for their exceptional quality and rich tradition.
President Abinader emphasized that tobacco now accounts for 10% of all Dominican exports, trailing only gold and medical supplies. He underscored the international acclaim received by Dominican cigars, often considered the world’s best due to their superior quality, flavor, and artisanal craftsmanship.
“In economic terms, tobacco is not just part of our cultural identity, but a real engine for generating foreign currency, employment, and dynamism in free trade zones,” Abinader stated.
The Dominican Republic currently produces 8.4 billion cigars annually, with over 181 million of these being premium, hand-rolled cigars. A substantial 88% of these exports are destined for the United States, while 10% go to the European Union.
“Dominican tobacco is not only history and tradition, but a bet on the economic future of the country,” Abinader stated the President in his presentation.
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23 July 2025