DR Bans Plantains to Haiti

The government of the Dominican Republic is facing increasing pressure to remove a ban that restricts exports of plantains to Haiti. Vendors located along the border with Haiti are at the forefront of the advocacy, pushing for the ability to sell their produce freely.

In markets lining the Dominican-Haitian border, vendors express that their “third quality” plantains are particularly sought after by Haitian buyers, who favor them for their specific qualities. These vendors, however, are encountering significant hurdles as Dominican soldiers, following directives from Dominican Agriculture Minister Limbert Cruz, have been seizing large amounts of these agricultural products. For several months, the vendors have been faced with challenges due to the restrictions. 

Initially the vendors were dealing with shortages, but the situation has now evolved into an overproduction of plantains, leading to a glut in the market. The vendors argue that the export ban is not just a minor inconvenience but a severe impediment to their primary source of income, crucial for supporting their families and fulfilling personal obligations. They describe the ban as overly stringent and are calling for its immediate reassessment to alleviate their economic distress.