US tariffs on free trade zones represent a loss of competitiveness

The United States has imposed a 12.5% tariff on products originating from free trade zones in the Dominican Republic. This policy change is expected to increase the production costs of Dominican goods intended for the American market.

Industry analysts indicate that this tariff creates a significant risk of reduced competitiveness for Dominican exports. The added costs may disadvantage local producers when compared to international competitors that currently access the U.S. market under more favorable conditions.