The Dominican Republic is the fifth largest market for U.S. consumer oriented products in the Western Hemisphere, after Canada, Mexico, Colombia and Chile. The U.S.-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) has proved to be successful in strengthening the U.S. competitive position, and consumer oriented product sales have increased by 200 percent since the implementation of the agreement. There are still many opportunities for growth in sales to the Dominican market.

The Dominican Republic maintains restrictive phytosanitary requirements on fresh and seed potatoes, including import permits, phytosanitary certificates, product registration, and plant approval (for processed potato products)

The DR has few but persistent market access issues. A common market entry option is to appoint an agent or distributor in the DR, while licensing agreements and franchises can also be successful. Because of the DR’s proximity to the U.S. and low air travel costs, the optimal market entry method is through a coordinated strategy that includes personally visiting potential partners or distributors in the DR. U.S. exporters should also be prepared to provide all promotional materials in the Spanish language. Good after-sales service is a pre-requisite of doing business successfully in the country.

Market Notes:

The Dominican Republic maintains restrictive phytosanitary requirements on fresh and seed potatoes, including import permits, phytosanitary certificates, product registration, and plant approval (for processed potato products)

Helpful Links:

• Dominican Republic Exporter Guide 12-5-2016
• Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Certification 12-26-2017
• Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards - Narrative 12-26-2017