Dominican Republic launches mechanization program to boost rice production

The Dominican government launched the National Agricultural Mechanization Program in San Juan. Agriculture Minister Francisco Oliverio Espaillat Bencosme stated the initiative is designed to reduce production costs, increase productivity, and improve the competitiveness of farmers. The minister also clarified that the repeal of the rice tariff decree does not weaken support for producers, but rather reflects the need to manage international trade commitments.

The program aims to strengthen domestic rice production, which the minister described as a strategic crop for the country’s food security. By increasing productivity and reducing costs, the initiative supports the rural economy and thousands of jobs in the Dominican Republic.