Merchants threaten to close Dajabón border in the face of recent tax increases and irregular collections by the Customs Department. In the border municipality, workers and vendors have reported that the situation is directly impacting the local economy and access to basic products necessary for daily life.
Controversy over new collections in Customs
Since two days ago, representatives of more than 42 commercial associations of Dajabón and the Haitian consulate have pointed out that the solidarity of the Dominican Government seems to have transformed into a “business». They claim that Customs personnel demand up to 500 pesos for an ice pack, in addition to applying new arbitrary tariffs never seen in the border.
The impact on trade and daily life
One of the affected, Ramón Fernández, detailed: “Each buyer must pay 500 pesos for an ice pack, something that never happened. It’s an abuse.” Additionally, merchants accuse pressures to relocate and restrictions on sales, which aggravates a crisis of income among those who depend on border trade to survive.
- Merchants threaten to close Dajabón border until irregular collections are reversed.
- Foreign citizens reported limitations to acquire local products.
- Workers report lack of official response while social tension grows.
Demand intervention from authorities in the face of crisis
The affected demand immediate actions from municipal and provincial authorities to restore normalcy and guarantee fair conditions. Juanita Rodríguez, a vendor in the area, emphasized: “They charge us for staying in front of the café, but here no one receives benefits. That’s not how it can be».
Threat of total closure of the border
If a quick solution is not offered, merchants threaten to close Dajabón border, which would affect not only the local economy, but also the flow of goods between the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The measure already generates concern in commercial associations, transporters, and authorities from both nations.
Restrictions and impact on the rice sector
Rice millers have denounced obstacles to exporting their product to Haiti, even with official permits from Customs. According to them, controls prevent placing Dominican excess rice in the Haitian market, affecting a key value chain for farmers and merchants.
Historical context and current situation of the border
The Dajabón border has been historically a sensitive point for binational trade and security, with frequent disagreements over customs policies and taxes. Experts consulted by orgullodominicano.org warn that the increase in tariffs without consensus could undermine bilateral agreements and social risks, as evidenced in previous border closures. The Dominican government faces the challenge of balancing tax collection and social stability in a strategic area for both countries.
Merchants demand responses to irregular collections
At the close of this note, merchants threaten to close Dajabón border if the “abuses” are not eliminated and they demand the opening of dialogue channels. More details on this topic in our nationals section. The situation puts families that depend on border trade on edge and highlights the importance of transparent and responsible institutional management in Dajabón.
