Dominican Republic showcases record-time eradication of Mediterranean Fruit Fly

Rome.- The Dominican Republic presented its historic success in eradicating the Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) from Punta Cana to the Standards Committee (SCC) of the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC) at the FAO headquarters in Rome. The achievement was shared with 190 plant health directors from member countries.

Led by Ambassador Ana Francisca de Asís Hernández, Plant Health Director Rosa Lazala, and technician Rosalba Rodríguez, the Dominican delegation highlighted the rapid eradication—completed in just 290 days—thanks to a skilled technical team and international support from organizations like OIRSA, FAO, IAEA, APHIS-USDA, and SENASICA. The infestation had previously cost the country its exports in 2015, but swift action under President Luis Abinader and Minister Limber Cruz ensured effective containment.

This marks the first time the Dominican Republic has presented a success story to the SCC at the FAO. The country is now among the first 14 nations to eliminate the pest and one of the few to achieve it twice.