- Free Zones Lead Exports with 62% of Total in the First Half of 2025
- The sector reached US$4.2 billion between January and June
Medical products, electronics, and tobacco top the list of exports, with the United States as the main destination.
The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs reported on Monday that the free zone sector continues to show strong performance, noting that exports under this regime totaled US\$4.28 billion between January and June 2025. This figure represents 62% of the country’s total exports during that period.
In a press release, the Ministry stated that in June alone, free zone exports amounted to US\$771.96 million, reflecting a 2.8% growth compared to the same month last year.
“This performance highlights the sector’s resilience and ability to adapt to the challenges of international trade,” the statement said.
Main Exported Goods
Medical and pharmaceutical products remain the leading export category, accounting for 33.7% of the total and generating approximately US\$260.5 million.
They are followed by electrical and electronic products (14%), tobacco and its derivatives (13.5%), and textile manufacturing (10.4%).
The United States remains the primary export destination, accounting for 72.2% of the total, followed by Puerto Rico (4.1%), the Netherlands (3.5%), and Haiti (3.04%).
The Sector´s reole
The Minister of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs, Víctor “Ito” Bisonó, emphasized the key role of the free zone sector as a source of foreign exchange and quality employment, stating:
“The dynamism of free zones is a clear demonstration of the country’s ability to successfully integrate into global value chains, even in today’s highly challenging environment. Their sustained growth reflects the effectiveness of public policies aimed at boosting productivity, investment, and competitiveness.”
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