First shipments of Dominican table grapes arrive at U.S. port

Philadelphia.- The Dominican Republic marked a historic milestone with the first-ever export of locally grown table grapes to the United States, the Ministry of Agriculture announced. Two trucks carrying a total of 32 tons of red and green seedless grapes—from the Allison and Timpson varieties—arrived at a U.S. port in Philadelphia, originating from Guayubín (Montecristi) and the southwest region.

Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz personally traveled to the U.S. to receive the shipment, celebrating the achievement as a result of President Luis Abinader’s agricultural innovation policies. Cruz emphasized that this export sets a new precedent for the country’s capacity to produce and market high-quality grapes internationally.

The grapes were cultivated with support from producers and the Bloom Fresh company, which plans to expand exports to 15–20 containers, taking advantage of the Dominican Republic’s year-round growing conditions. The event also included participation from Vice Minister Rafael Ortiz Quezada, family members of local producer Arismendi Almonte, and company representatives.