The Dominican Republic exported USD 726 million worth of tobacco in the first half of the year. President Luis Abinader praised the good performance and is optimistic for the rest of 2022, reports Dominican Today.
“Tobacco has been a leading player for years in the country’s economic development. Hundreds of stories are rolled up in each leaf that become a reason for celebration, positive news and a palpitation of emotion in Dominicans to know that in our lands is born a product that today, by our promise, is cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic, officialized in Law 341-22,” he said.
Speaking at the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Association of Cigar Producers of the Dominican Republic (Procigar), he said that the sector is one of the most reliable examples of a revitalization plan that works and that “we are fulfilling our commitments.” He said the government has vigorously implemented stricter controls against illegal products.
Procigar President Hendrik Kelner said that the country had reached the historic figure of USD 1.2 billion in tobacco and cigar exports. He expressed his pleasure that 30 years ago the country exported about USD 80 million, which is more than 15 times this figure.