Dominican government vows to continue defending rice production against U.S. interests
Santo Domingo.- Vice President Raquel Peña led a presentation on the latest advances in rice production in the Dominican Republic, highlighting the sector’s growth over the past two decades, the development of new varieties and efforts to improve productivity, profitability and sustainability.
According to data presented during the event, national white rice production increased from approximately 9.2 million quintals in 2005 to nearly 14.8 million in 2025. Productivity reached 5,477.75 kilograms of paddy rice per hectare in 2025.
Among the advances highlighted were the LRC JUMA 69-20 and LRC JUMA 70-22 varieties, as well as the potential of JUMA 71-25, which is tolerant to certain herbicides and could help improve weed control and reduce production costs.
Government measures to strengthen rice production
Minister of the Presidency Andrés Bautista García highlighted government measures to support rice producers, including subsidies for certified seeds and fertilizers, preferential financing through the Agricultural Bank, agricultural insurance, irrigation and drainage maintenance, and pledging programs.
He also outlined a multi-year plan for the rice sector that includes creating a specialized fund, expanding financing and seed certification, promoting agricultural research, and improving irrigation, drainage and rural roads.
The government also plans to review rice marketing mechanisms to promote greater transparency in weighing, tare and moisture requirements, with particular attention to small and medium-sized producers.
Bautista emphasized the importance of cooperation among government institutions, farmers, researchers and the private sector to promote innovation and technology in rice production.
He said maintaining the progress achieved in the sector will require greater access to technology and improved conditions for farmers, stressing that protecting domestic rice production is essential to food security, the rural economy and the livelihoods of thousands of Dominican families.
