The United States and the Dominican Republic have deepened their collaboration to enhance trade security and streamline cross-border logistics, particularly at the country’s ports and airports. This joint effort underscores a growing emphasis on fortifying the Dominican Republic logistics chain, a critical regional and international commerce component.
Strengthening Port and Airport Security Through U.S.-Dominican Cooperation
The collaboration involves U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel stationed directly at key logistics hubs in the Dominican Republic. These American officials are working closely with Dominican authorities to elevate the security standards of the country’s transportation infrastructure.
Abdías Ortiz, Regional Attaché for the Caribbean with CBP, confirmed the depth of this partnership during a recent high-level industry event. “We are working very closely with Dominican authorities to enhance port and airport security, thereby bringing a level of security to the supply and logistics chain for the United States,” Ortiz stated.
This cooperative model includes information sharing, joint surveillance strategies, and risk assessment measures designed to identify and neutralize threats such as the smuggling of illicit goods. Ortiz stressed that having U.S. personnel on the ground enables a proactive approach to potential issues, preventing them from impacting the Dominican Republic’s logistics chain or the broader international system.
A Milestone Event: BASC Certification Ceremony
These remarks were delivered at the prestigious certification ceremony of 52 Dominican companies under the BASC (Business Alliance for Secure Commerce) standard. Held at the El Embajador Hotel, the event formed part of the organization’s annual general assembly, where public and private sector leaders convened to discuss trade security trends and innovations.
BASC is an international business alliance promoting secure commerce through partnerships between governments and businesses. Certification under the BASC standard signifies compliance with global supply chain security protocols and operational integrity.
The president of BASC’s Dominican chapter, Horacio Lomba, opened the event with a powerful address on global logistics challenges. “We are living through turbulent times, in which geopolitical and economic shifts, technological advancements, and climate change have pressured and slowed global trade,” Lomba noted.
His comments reflected the urgency of shoring up infrastructure and processes within the Dominican Republic logistics chain to keep pace with international demands.
Global Shocks and Local Responses
Lomba further highlighted how synthetic drugs and counterfeit goods have strained national health systems, even in the most developed countries, calling for enhanced vigilance. “Supply chain disruptions, international wars, and the reduction of maritime traffic through the Suez and Panama Canals are redrawing the global map, forcing us to be far more alert and well-informed,” he said.
This global backdrop reinforces the importance of partnerships between the United States and the Dominican Republic. It also emphasizes the necessity for local companies to obtain certifications and adopt best practices that enhance the security and efficiency of the Dominican Republic logistics chain.
Spotlight on Certified Companies
The ceremony honored 52 Dominican institutions that achieved BASC certification. These organizations represent diverse sectors within the logistics and transportation ecosystem, playing crucial roles in moving goods across the Caribbean and beyond.
- Some of the certified companies include:
- Armadura Protección y Seguridad
- Agentes y Estibadores Portuarios
- Almacenes y Frigoríficos Dominicanos
- Dominican Watchman National
- Cervecería Nacional Dominicana
- Haina International Terminal
- Molinos del Ozama
- Pier 17 Group Dominicana
- Jabil Healthcare DR
- Hospifar
- Plásticos Multiform
- Now Logistics
- Rodemsa
- Sans Souci Ports
- Truckslogic Dominica
These companies exemplify the robust capacity and commitment of the private sector to uphold global security standards and enhance the resilience of the Dominican Republic logistics chain. Their certification signifies readiness to mitigate risks and capitalize on trade and investment opportunities with key partners such as the United States.
A Model for Regional Leadership
The Dominican Republic’s proactive stance has cemented its role as a leader in secure trade within the Caribbean. The country’s willingness to engage directly with U.S. security agencies and elevate its logistics protocols aligns with international expectations.
Through enhanced port surveillance, anti-smuggling measures, and industry certifications, the Dominican Republic logistics chain is increasingly viewed as a reliable link in the broader supply chain network that services the Americas and other global regions.
This collaborative framework also serves as a potential model for neighboring countries aiming to improve their trade infrastructure and compliance with international security standards.
Future Prospects: Investing in Logistics Resilience
Looking ahead, continued investment in logistics infrastructure, digital security tools, and international partnerships will be crucial to maintaining and growing the Dominican Republic’s competitiveness in global trade.
With geopolitical tensions, climate-related disruptions, and evolving threats continuing to challenge supply chains, robust cooperation between countries like the U.S. and the Dominican Republic offers a vital path forward.
As certified companies expand their operations and new firms seek BASC certification, the Dominican Republic’s logistics chain will become stronger, able to withstand shocks and deliver value.
Conclusion
The United States—Dominican Republic partnership represents a high-impact initiative to safeguard and strengthen regional logistics operations. By stationing U.S. personnel in Dominican ports and sharing critical security data, both nations are building a safer, more efficient framework for trade.
With 52 Dominican companies now certified under the BASC standard, the Dominican Republic has signaled its commitment to international best practices and secure commerce. This strengthens the Dominican Republic logistics chain, reinforces trust among global trading partners, and positions the country as a regional benchmark for secure, resilient logistics.