Tobacco exports generate $1.359 billion for Dominican Republic in 2025

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s tobacco industry generated exports worth US$1.359 billion in 2025, an increase of US$19 million compared to the previous year, reaffirming its position as one of the country’s leading export sectors. According to Iván Hernández Guzmán, the industry currently supports more than 122,000 direct jobs and produces approximately 330,000 quintals of tobacco annually.

Hernández highlighted that 130 tobacco and tobacco-derivative companies operate under the free zone regime in the country, with 93% located in the northern region. He noted that tobacco exports have grown by 41% since 2019, driving new investments and increasing employment from 97,486 workers in 2019 to more than 122,000 in 2026.

The official attributed the sector’s expansion to government support programs, including technical assistance, seed and seedling distribution, land preparation, pest control measures, and international promotion efforts. He emphasized that tobacco remains the Dominican Republic’s third-largest export product, behind gold and medical devices, while Dominican cigars continue to enjoy a global reputation for quality through renowned brands such as Arturo Fuente and Davidoff.