Industry back on its feet with volume growth and stable quality, says grower-exporter Fresh Fruit Dominicana
The Dominican Republic is once again solidifying its position as one of the most attractive and reliable origins for organic bananas thanks to a good performance in 2025 and a positive outlook for 2026. So says Fresh Fruit Dominicana, a family-owned Belgian company that grows and exports DR-grown organic bananas to the European market.
Against a backdrop of political, social, and legal stability, it says the country is delivering not only quality and volume but also long-term confidence for international buyers.
“Over the past two years, the Dominican banana industry has made significant strides in quality, productivity, and sustainability,” the company said. “With consistent economic growth and robust agricultural output, the country is back on track in the organic banana segment – setting a regional benchmark for certified organic and fair trade production.
On top of the smallholder supply base, one of the most notable transformations in the sector has been the shift from smallholder farming to larger, independent farms with industrial-scale capabilities. This change has resulted in more stable production volumes and higher-quality outputs, driven by significant investments in technology, including modern irrigation systems, solar-powered infrastructure, and advanced farm management practices.
“Moreover, the Dominican Republic offers one of the safest environments for banana production in the region, particularly in terms of protection from drug cartel influence and violence – an increasingly critical concern for international stakeholders focused on supply chain integrity and worker welfare,” Fresh Fruit Dominicana said.
“Unlike other origins, the Dominican banana industry is not reliant on the spot market, offering predictable pricing and secure sourcing – a growing priority in the European market. With demanding standards for sustainability and traceability, European buyers view the Dominican Republic as a natural partner, thanks to its genuine commitment to organic practices, environmental stewardship, and fair trade principles.”
Production is further supported by the country’s competitive logistical advantage: favourable transit times to Europe contribute to a reliable, cost-effective supply chain. As an ACP country, the Dominican Republic also has the advantage not pay import duties into the European Union.
“As global demand for organic produce continues to grow, the Dominican Republic is not just keeping pace – it’s leading by example. With a combination of quality, sustainability, and supply chain security, the country is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of the global organic banana trade,” Fresh Fruit said.
