I have repeatedly emphasized that the Dominican Republic demonstrates impressive potential that extends beyond its tourist attractions. This country is recognized as one of the most attractive places to visit in the region, and has additionally been classified as the third most desired destination for retirement. My words are not unfounded. Such nominations and rankings stem from the fact that the Dominican Republic possesses the appropriate infrastructure and conditions that are ideal for tourists, retirees, and those who wish to escape the cold. It is worth noting that the country’s achievements in these areas are the result of hard work and a successfully developing economy, resembling a well-oiled machine.
Dominican Economy
If we look at the numbers, the Dominican Republic is the second-largest economy in Central America and the seventh-largest in Latin America. It relies mainly on mining, tourism, manufacturing, real estate, agriculture, and services in free trade zones. The Dominican Republic is one of the top 5 global producers of papaya and avocado, and ranks among the top ten largest producers of cocoa. The Dominican Republic trades with most countries worldwide, reaching even China, Japan, and South Korea. In Europe, we can find more and more Dominican products. The largest partner of the Dominican Republic is the United States.
A common feature of many islands with similar characteristics is that the country imports more products than it exports. The main products imported by the country are diesel fuel, cars, natural gas, jewelry, and medicines. The main partners are the United States, China, Spain, Brazil, and Mexico.
Polish Exports and Imports to the Dominican Republic
Poland is among the countries that are increasingly working on trade exchange. According to data from 2022, Poland exported products worth a total of $46.9 million to the Dominican Republic and imported products totaling $48.8 million. Compared to the previous year, we exported $10 million more.
Interestingly, in 2022, Poland exported the most chemical industry products, prepared foodstuffs, photographic instruments and apparatus, machinery, mechanical appliances and electrical equipment, and products of plant origin to the Dominican Republic. In contrast, we exported the least wood and wood articles, works of art, and articles of stone, plaster, or cement.
As a co-founder of the Polish-Dominican Chamber of Commerce, we are constantly striving to improve not only social but also economic relations. In 2021, we established relations between Maria Curie-Skłodowska University and UNIBE University in Santo Domingo. This was one of the first milestones for the Chamber. In 2022, we had the opportunity to participate in a seminar organized by the Polish Embassy in Panama. The seminar focused on promoting the Dominican market. At that time, we had the chance to meet a representative of one of the largest supermarkets in the Dominican Republic.
Polish Milk in the Dominican Republic
From the very beginning, the Dominican side showed a willingness to cooperate and was highly interested in products from Poland. After many discussions and assessing the demand, it turned out that one of the products the supermarket was interested in would be milk. Without delay, we began working for our Caribbean friends. To find the best contractor, we approached many companies, among which Mlekovita proved to have the best offer. Discussions did not last long, and we immediately proceeded to organize the export of Polish milk to the Caribbean.
At this moment, we can boast weekly exports leaving Poland and sailing to the Dominican Republic. Every seven days, over 20,000 liters of milk reach Dominican supermarkets. We certainly won’t stop there, as another contract has been concluded. Seeing the competitiveness of Polish companies, the Dominican side is interested in food products. As the market shows, Western European products are often of lower quality and, moreover, are more expensive. Therefore, in addition to the USA and Western Europe, the Dominican Republic is looking for new directions.
Summary
Polish products are known worldwide, including in Latin America, which is of most interest to us. It is worth noting that more and more Dominican products are reaching Europe. The Netherlands, Belgium, and Switzerland are among the largest recipients of Dominican cocoa. Many fruits that grow in the Dominican Republic, including avocado and bananas, go to Germany. In Poland, Dominican rum can be found. However, we would like there to be significantly more of these products.
Therefore, we encourage you to contact us to start exporting or importing. As a founding member of the Polish-Dominican Chamber of Commerce, we can prepare reports, organize online meetings with potential recipients, or arrange on-site meetings and visits to plantations or distilleries.
Jędrzej Pacak
