Dominican pork producers demand reduction in imports to protect local industry

Santo Domingo.- Pork producers in the Dominican Republic are calling on the government to adjust pork imports to better reflect domestic production, arguing that current import volumes are hurting the profitability and sustainability of local producers.

Julián Abud Martínez, president of the Dominican Republic Association of Pig Producers, said local farms currently supply about 70% of national demand, while imports should cover only the portion that domestic production cannot meet.

“We are demanding that Dominican producers be respected and that there be a balance between production and imports,” Abud Martínez said.

He argued that as domestic production has increased and the supply gap has narrowed, imports should be reduced accordingly. He estimated that imports should represent roughly 30% to 35% of demand, rather than the higher levels he says are currently entering the market.

Abud Martínez also stressed the sector’s importance to rural communities, noting that pig production supports breeders, farmers, transporters, slaughterhouses, butchers and merchants, while providing income for many young people.

The producers’ association is expected to meet to determine its next steps. Abud Martínez said the group remains open to dialogue with the government, but warned that mobilizations could be considered if their concerns are not addressed.