Free Zone Growth Could Create New Demand for Industrial Real Estate in the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic’s free-zone sector is growing in exports, employment and economic contribution, potentially creating additional demand for industrial space as companies expand and new investment enters the country.

The president of the Dominican Association of Free Zones (Adozona), Claudia Pellerano, said more than 200,000 Dominicans were directly employed by 858 free-zone companies in 2025, while sector exports surpassed US$8.5 billion.

Pellerano also said free-zone exports increased 4.4% between January and August compared with the same period in 2025, with August reaching record levels.

Beyond exports, the sector’s broader economic impact has also increased. Pellerano cited estimates from economic intelligence and market strategy firm Analytica showing that the contribution of free zones and their local linkages rose from RD$403 billion in 2021 to RD$603 billion in 2025, equivalent to 8.1% of GDP according to the estimate.

More manufacturing activity can translate into demand for industrial buildings, production facilities, warehouses, logistics centers and additional land for future expansion. Growth in free zones can also increase demand for supporting commercial services around these areas.

Pellerano pointed to changes in global trade as another potential source of demand. She said the reduction in U.S. imports from China could create opportunities for Dominican companies in sectors where the country already has production capacity.

She argued that capturing those opportunities will require new investment, stronger local suppliers and a larger skilled workforce.

For the real-estate market, the next indicator to watch is whether that potential translates into new companies, expansions and additional industrial facilities. If it does, demand for the land and buildings supporting free-zone production could grow alongside the sector.