Since his assumption of office in January 2026, the Minister of Agriculture, Francisco Oliverio Espaillat Bencosme, assured that the country has not needed to authorize the importation of a single quintal of rice. The decision is based on the strength of Dominican rice production and the existing inventory levels, which reach approximately 7.2 million quintals.
Strength of the rice sector
Espaillat highlighted the capacity developed by producers, industrialists, and other actors linked to the cultivation of the cereal. “Our producers have given their face in the most difficult moments and that speaks of the strength that the sector has today,” he expressed during the Expo Pueblo Nuevo 2026 Fair.
The Minister recalled the delay in the shipment of rice from the United States at the end of 2025. Despite the delay, the domestic market did not experience difficulties, as national production availability covered the demand. The rice that finally arrived in January represented 23,300 metric tons contemplated within the preferential quota for importation, but it was not considered a need for importation due to lack of production.
Food security and domestic market
The behavior of the market during that period was cited by Espaillat as an additional proof of the capacity of the Dominican sector to respond to consumer demand and contribute decisively to the country’s food security.
Support to the sector and confidence in the government
Regarding the DR-CAFTA, the Minister called on producers and industrialists to maintain calm and to trust in the negotiations led by President Luis Abinader. “The President has given sufficient evidence that he is an ally of national production,” he noted. The Minister highlighted the government’s vocation for dialogue and concertation, inviting productive actors to continue trusting while the conversations continue.
Recognitions at the Expo Pueblo Nuevo Fair
During the activity, headed by Mayor Fernando Rodríguez, the Minister received the recognition of distinguished visitor awarded by the Pueblo Nuevo District Board. Likewise, the agricultural producer Américo Rodríguez was recognized. Subsequently, a cattle auction was held, financed and sponsored by the Cooperative of Savings, Credits, and Multiple Services 30 de Abril (Coopeabril La Nuestra).
Credits: deultimominuto.com
