Less is more? Exports decline, but export value reaches new peak

According to preliminary figures from the 2024 Exporting Companies Profile, the Dominican Republic recorded a decrease in the number of exporters during 2024, but a notable increase in the total value exported.

The total number of exporters was 3,777, representing a 4.5% drop compared to 2023.

However, the total export value reached USD 12,922.0 million, with an 8.3% growth compared to the previous year.

Predominance of formal exporters

Of the total number of exporters, 3,277 were identified as formal in official records, equivalent to 86.7% of the total. These formal exporters accounted for 99.7% of the exported value, while unidentified exporters represented only 0.3% of the traded value.

Legal entities lead foreign trade.

Among formal exporters:

79.8 % corresponded to legal entities, who contributed 99.7% of the exported value.

Individuals accounted for 20.2% of the total, down 13.1% year-over-year. Their economic contribution was USD 44.6 million, equivalent to 0.3% of total exports by the formal sector.

Most exporting economic activities.

By sectors:

Trade led with 32.2% of formal exporters, although with a slight decrease of 4.6 %.

Manufacturing (local and free trade zones) represented 28.2%, with a decrease of 1.6%.

Non-commercial exports made by individuals reached 9.4%.

The Mining and Quarrying sector had the lowest share, with just 0.4%.