PEDERNALES, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Cross-border commerce between Haiti and the Dominican Republic ground to a halt on Tuesday as Haitian merchants staged a blockade at the Pedernales frontier crossing. The protest erupted in response to controversial new trade measures implemented by recently appointed customs collector Lancer García.
Demonstrators strategically positioned a Haitian truck across the border passageway, effectively suspending all movement of goods and people between the two nations. The merchants allege that García has abruptly altered long-established trade protocols, including imposing previously unheard-of taxes that they claim severely undermine cross-border commercial activities.
The administrative changes have extended beyond trade policies, affecting customs personnel as well. Multiple veteran employees have been replaced with new staff since García’s assignment to the Pedernales border terminal, creating additional institutional instability.
Security forces from the Specialized Corps for Land Border Security (Cesfront) have maintained a heightened presence in the area, successfully preventing any significant violent outbreaks despite the tense standoff. Authorities continue to closely monitor developments to ensure the situation does not escalate further.
This appointment represents García’s third border assignment amid ongoing controversies. Previously transferred from Puerto Plata to Dajabón following disputes with employees and political figures, he subsequently clashed with Haitian merchants in Dajabón over a 2.5% tax hike that ultimately prompted his reassignment. His replacement in Dajabón by attorney Julio Alejo this week has already contributed to restored calm at that northern border crossing.