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Dominican Republic seeks to recover its citriculture with investment and certified genetics
VU
One of the challenges is to combat diseases such as phytophthora and HLB, which, although not curable, can be managed with good practices.
The Dominican Republic will renew its citrus production with the arrival of certified genetic material from California, which will allow the recovery of traditional varieties such as the Valencia orange and the incorporation of high-value fruits such as the caviar lemon. This initiative was announced during the IV International Citrus Congress 2025.
The Lemon Cluster pointed out that the Dominican citrus industry is seeking to recover from diseases such as HLB, which have severely affected crops. Currently, the country produces 50,000 tons of lemons annually, with Persian lemons as the main variety.
The plantations are located in high areas such as Jarabacoa and Constanza, where the climate is more favorable. In addition, Banco Agrícola announced RD$340 million (US$5,753,808) in financing to modernize 10,000 tareas and support 244 small producers.
In 2024, exports exceeded 2,000 tons, including shipments of Eureka lemons to Europe, although Persian lemons face strong competition in the U.S. market. The sector has improved productivity, but still lags behind its main competitors.
One of the challenges is to combat diseases such as phytophthora and HLB, which, although not curable, can be managed with good practices. There were also warnings about phytosanitary risks such as leprosis, which means that controls must be strengthened.
The country is betting on introducing gourmet fruits for international niches and reducing dependence on imports.
source: eldinero.com.do
photo: elnuevodiario.com.do
