The Dominican Association of Free Zones (Adozona) appreciated the recent data published by the Directorate General of Customs (DGA), which shows a remarkable growth in the free zone sector. According to the press release, September exports have experienced growth for the fifth consecutive month, surpassing the previous month’s increase.
In August, exports increased by 1.6%, but in September, the sector had a 7.0% growth. Figures went from $628.61 million in September 2022 to $672.75 million in September 2023, representing a growth in value of approximately $44.14 million.
During the third quarter of 2023, exports reached US$2,048.66 million, a 5.8% increase over the same quarter of 2022, when exports reached US$1,937.34 million.
Through a press release, it is explained that the growth in the first and second quarters of 2023 was more modest, with 1.8% and 1.5% respectively.
Free trade zone sector in the Dominican Republic
The president of Adozona, Luis José Bonilla Bojos, expressed that they are delighted with these extraordinary results that demonstrate the potential and resilience of the free zone sector in the Dominican Republic.
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“The continued growth in our exports is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the companies in our free zones,” Bonilla assured.
He added that “Adozona will continue to promote the development of this key sector and work closely with the authorities to ensure an environment conducive to the growth of our companies. We are excited about the future and the positive contribution that our sector brings to the country’s economy.
He added that September’s result, which marks the best September in the sector’s history, has had a significant impact on the cumulative figures for the year.
He specified that free zone exports during the first nine months of 2023 show a remarkable growth of 3.0 % compared to the same period of 2022.
The cumulative value has gone from US$5,862.77 million in 2022 to US$6,036.70 million in 2023, representing an increase of approximately US$173.93 million.
“This growth in the free zone sector contrasts with the continued decline in domestic exports, which have fallen by 15.6% through September 2023. The figures show a decline of $521.61 million, from $3,309.10 million in 2022 to $2,817.49 million in 2023″, the statement said.
However, the growth in free zone exports has partially offset this loss, contributing 33% to mitigate the negative impact on national exports.
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