Over 75% of seized products in the Dominican Republic in 2025 are poultry, says livestock authority

Santo Domingo.- The General Directorate of Livestock (Digega) reported that over 75% of seized animal products in 2025 have been poultry, primarily from the United States and Puerto Rico. This surge is attributed to stricter health surveillance and control measures aimed at ensuring food safety.

Director General Abel Madera revealed that confiscations have grown significantly, with over 12,000 pounds seized so far in 2025, compared to 21,804 pounds in 2024 and 18,570 pounds in 2023. The rise reflects the effectiveness of newly implemented strategies.

Authorities have intensified inspections at ports and airports through staff training in X-ray image analysis and the Canine Binomial Project, which aids in detecting prohibited products. Canine units now operate in four major airports, positioning the country as a leader in the OIRSA region.

Key Seizure Points
Most confiscations occur at Punta Cana and Las Américas airports, followed by Cibao, La Romana, and Gregorio Luperón. El Higüero has seen a decline due to the ban on flights from Haiti. Digega reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding animal health and food safety through these reinforced measures.