- The growth of Dominican exports was driven by free trade zones and consumer goods.
From January to June 2024, the total exports of the Dominican Republic reached $6,334.32 million, reflecting an increase of 3.08% compared to the same period the previous year. This growth is detailed in a report published by the General Directorate of Customs (DGA) on foreign trade.
- 67.23% of the exports correspond to the free trade zone regime, totaling $4,258.46 million, which represents an increase of 6.78% compared to the previous year. On the other hand, the national regime contributed 30.36% of the total exported, totaling $1,922.99 million, although it experienced a slight decline of -3.26% compared to the same period in 2023.
Within the national regime, 43.26% of the exports are consumer goods, while 33.78% are raw materials and the remaining 22.96% are capital goods.
Specifically, Customs explains that non-metal goods accounted for 60.89% of the total national regime, compared to 39.11% for metal goods, where gold and silver constitute 33.25% of this category.
The report highlights that 74.74% of national exports are concentrated in 10 specific tariff chapters, mainly including fine pearls, gemstones, sugars, plastics, cocoa, and edible fruits, among others.
Regarding destinations, 82.22% of national exports are directed to Switzerland, the United States, and India, leading the list of the top 10 destinations with 51.18% of the total.
In terms of geographical distribution, the DGA’s Commerce magazine explains that 59.50% of national exports come from contributors based in the National District, followed by Santo Domingo and Santiago with 14.19% and 3.59%, respectively.
At the provincial level, 80.72% of exports are concentrated in just five provinces of the country.
Transportation-wise, 52.27% of exports were carried out by sea, 33.23% by air, and the remaining 14.49% by land. The main points of departure are Las Américas International Airport, Caucedo, Haina, Elías Piña, and Santo Domingo.
The report also highlights the growth and strategic importance of the free trade zone sector, which represented more than 67% of the total exported, demonstrating its key role in the national economy.
These data reflect the dynamics and diversification of the Dominican export landscape, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the country in international trade during the first semester of 2024.
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