Dominican government eliminates 20% tariff on U.S. rice imports
The Government of the Dominican Republic has made official the elimination of the 20% tariff that was applied to rice import quotas from the United States. This measure was finalized through decree 635-26, signed by President Luis Abinader on September 9, which repeals the previous decree 624-24.
The decision responds to the need to align the country’s trade policies with current international commitments. The issuance of this new decree coincided with a formal request from the U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, who urged the lifting of the tariff to ensure compliance with market access obligations established in the CAFTA-DR free trade agreement.
Context of the measure and food security
Previously, Decree 624-24 justified the imposition of the 20% tariff under the argument of protecting internal productive capacity and ensuring a stable food supply for the citizenry. The authorities highlighted at that time the strategic importance of the rice sector for socioeconomic stability, underlining that this crop is fundamental to the economy of 21 provinces of the national territory.
The repeal of decree 624-24 marks a shift in current tariff policy, eliminating the tax burden on rice quotas imported from the United States and reaffirming the Dominican State’s commitment to international trade agreements.
Alofoke Deportes
With this action, the Executive Branch seeks to maintain a balance between protecting local producers and complying with trade agreements that facilitate the exchange of basic products between both nations.
