The National Council of Private Companies (CONEP) said it is working alongside the Dominican government to assess the implications of a new tariff system introduced by the United States, as exporters await further details on how the measures will affect trade with the country’s largest commercial partner.
The revised tariff framework took effect after the expiration of a temporary US tariff regime and forms part of a broader policy affecting imports from more than 60 economies, including the Dominican Republic. Business leaders are now analyzing how the new rules will apply to Dominican products and whether some goods will qualify for exemptions or special treatment.
Detailed Review Underway
CONEP said a comprehensive assessment is necessary to determine the scope of the new measures, including any exceptions, exclusions, and product-specific provisions that could influence Dominican exports.
“At this time, it is essential to accurately evaluate the scope of the adopted provisions, including the exceptions, exclusions, and specific treatment applicable to different products, in order to determine their implications for the Dominican Republic,” the organization said in a statement.
The business association noted that one of its main concerns is whether the revised tariff structure could affect the competitiveness of Dominican exports in the US market or alter competitive conditions relative to other exporting countries.
Government and Private Sector Coordination
While technical evaluations continue, CONEP said it is maintaining close communication with Dominican authorities. The organization believes that ongoing coordination between the public and private sectors will be critical to understanding the practical impact of the new regulations and developing an appropriate response.
“We have confidence in the actions and initiatives being carried out by the government, with the support of the private sector, to foster constructive dialogue with US authorities and achieve the best possible outcome for the Dominican Republic,” the statement added.
Protecting a Key Trade Relationship
CONEP emphasized that the United States remains the Dominican Republic’s largest trading partner and one of the country’s leading sources of foreign investment, export demand, and employment. The organization said the bilateral commercial relationship has been built over decades on economic cooperation and mutual benefits.
It also reaffirmed the Dominican private sector’s commitment to complying with national legislation and internationally recognized labor standards, while continuing to strengthen responsible trade practices and reliable supply chains.
Looking ahead, CONEP said it will continue monitoring the implementation of the new tariff framework and collaborate with the relevant institutions to identify measures that help safeguard the competitiveness of Dominican exports and preserve strong trade ties with the United States.