The Minister of Agriculture, Francisco Oliverio Espaillat Bencosme, stated that the repeal of the decree regulating tariffs on rice does not imply that the Government has left national producers without support. The measure, according to the official, responds to international commercial commitments and opens the door to renegotiations with favorable technical conditions.
Commitment to Food Security
Espaillat Bencosme highlighted the relevance of rice for the country’s food security, job generation, and rural economy. “The Government will not leave rice producers alone”, he said, emphasizing that protection goes beyond a tariff and must include timely financing, mechanization, cost reduction, and technical assistance.
Institutional Support for Rice Producers
The Minister cited the National Agricultural Mechanization Program (PRONAMEC) as one of the support tools. PRONAMEC aims to reduce production costs, increase productivity, and improve the competitiveness of Dominican agriculture. Additionally, plans were mentioned to strengthen assistance and modernization programs directed at rice producers.
Future Perspectives
According to Espaillat Bencosme, the elimination of the tariff regime is not a renunciation of defending national production. “True protection lies in guaranteeing timely financing, mechanization, cost reduction, technical assistance, crop planning, orderly marketing, and profitability for those who produce”, explained the Minister.
International Context
The decision also reflects the need for the Dominican Republic to manage its commercial commitments responsibly. The measure may open space for a potential renegotiation in favorable technical conditions for the country. The Minister noted that President Luis Abinader maintains his support for the rice sector, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to local production.
Credits: n.com.do
