Dominican cocoa drives export growth to Spain in 2024

Santo Domingo.- Dominican exports to Spain have seen a sharp rise in 2024, reaching a total value of US$129.9 million compared to US$95.2 million in 2023, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 36.5%, according to trade data from ProInteligencia and analyzed by Data Market.

Alcoholic beverages remained the country’s top export category, generating US$48.9 million. However, cocoa and its preparations recorded the most impressive growth, skyrocketing from US$6.8 million in 2023 to US$31.2 million in 2024—a 359% increase—positioning cocoa as the second-largest export product to the Spanish market.

Other notable export categories included tobacco and its substitutes (US$15.0 million), fine or cultured pearls and precious metals (US$14.1 million), and edible fruits (US$7.6 million). Experts attribute this success to strategic efforts in product diversification, quality improvements, and favorable trade agreements with Europe.