The Dominican Republic’s free zones strengthened their importance in the country’s foreign trade by contributing $780 million to total exports in March, equivalent to 65% of the month’s exports, and marking a 13.3% year-over-year growth.
According to the Minister of Industry, Trade, and MSMEs, Víctor “Ito” Bisonó, this performance reflects the results of a favorable investment climate and the joint efforts of the government, investors, and workers—consolidating the sector as one of the main drivers of both exports and formal employment.
Q1 Export Performance
During the first quarter of 2025, national exports reached $3.166 billion, an increase of $343 million compared to the same period in 2024, as highlighted in an official press release.
Export Growth by Destination
Export sales to Haiti experienced an impressive 45% year-over-year increase, while exports to the United Statesgrew by 6.5%, surpassing $1.68 billion in the first three months of 2025.
In Haiti’s case, the growth is particularly noteworthy. In February, it ranked as the country’s second-largest export destination, with $83.8 million, reflecting a 30.3% increase compared to the previous year.
The sustained growth of free zones continues to fuel the national economy and strengthen the Dominican Republic’s position in global trade.
February Growth
February 2025 marked the eleventh consecutive month of export growth, with total exports reaching $986.7 million. This represents a 1.4% year-over-year increase and an absolute variation of $13.3 million compared to February 2024, according to figures provided by ProDominicana (the Dominican Republic Export and Investment Center).
Free Zone Industrial Parks
In 2024, the National Free Zone Council, led by the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and MSMEs (MICM), approved the establishment of 74 new companies in the free zones. These represent a total investment of RD$11.57 billion and the projection of approximately 7,000 new jobs.
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