The U.S. Commercial Service, in collaboration with its Embassy in the Dominican Republic, hosted the Global Diversity Export Initiative (GDEI) conference and trade mission in November. The event aimed to foster opportunities for businesses led by underrepresented groups across the Caribbean region. Key speakers included Isabella Cascarano, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere; Patricia Aguilera, Chargé d’Affaires; and Vilma Arbaje de Contreras, Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade in the Dominican Republic.
The conference facilitated over 150 one-on-one meetings between U.S. diplomats and industry specialists from the Dominican Republic and neighboring nations such as Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, 12 U.S. companies held more than 60 meetings with Dominican businesses, exploring partnership and distribution agreements to strengthen commercial ties.
Data from the U.S. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) highlights the economic impact of underrepresented groups, with businesses generating $2,000 million in revenue and 9.4 million jobs in 2023. The event also recognized the significant contributions of women-led businesses in the Dominican Republic, particularly in sectors like services and commerce, emphasizing their role in economic growth and job creation. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to expanding trade and investment opportunities throughout the Caribbean. (https://dominicantoday.com/dr/local/2024/12/04/u-s-trade-mission-promotes-diverse-business-opportunities-in-the-caribbean/)
