The Dominican government has announced that the 2026 National Agricultural Fair (Feria Agropecuaria Nacional) will offer a major financial boost to the country’s farming sector, headlined by specialized low-interest loans aimed at modernization and genetic improvement.
The event, organized by the National Patronage of Cattle Ranchers (Patronato Nacional de Ganaderos), is scheduled to run from 12 to 22 March 2026 at the Feria Ganadera facilities in the capital. The fair has the backing of the Ministry of Agriculture.
A central highlight of this year’s fair is the involvement of the Agricultural Bank (Banco Agrícola). Fernando Durán, the bank’s administrator, confirmed that loans will be made available at a preferential annual interest rate of 6%. These funds are specifically earmarked for the acquisition of machinery, equipment, livestock, and new technologies.
“The Agricultural Bank is committed to supporting producers so that Dominican agriculture continues to reach levels of excellence, sustainability, and profitability,” Durán stated during a press conference held at the fairgrounds.
To streamline the process, officials are urging producers to begin their applications immediately at any of the bank’s 32 branches nationwide. By starting the paperwork early, farmers can ensure their financing is pre-approved and ready for use when the fair opens its doors in March.
The 10-day event serves as the premier showcase for the nation’s agricultural industry, bringing together producers, government institutions, and the general public. This year’s focus is on enhancing the genetic quality of livestock and improving the overall infrastructure of local farms through favorable repayment terms.
The announcement was made alongside senior officials, including the new Minister of Agriculture, Francisco Oliverio Espaillat Bencosme; the president of the National Patronage of Cattle Ranchers, José Mallén; and the director of the National Institute for Price Stabilization (Inespre), David Herrera.
The announcement comes at a time when President Luis Abinader has recently replaced the Minister of Agriculture. Yet, an opinion piece in Listin Diario expresses doubts about the new actions urging that the President also remove the director of the Banco Agricola putting in doubt his alignment with the new plans of Minister Espaillat Bencosme. The new minister of Agriculture comes from the private farming sector and is a champion of mechanization.
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Presidency
Listin Diario
11 February 2026