The NC Chamber signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Dominican Association of Free Trade Zones (ADOZONA) to strengthen business relationships and expand trade and investment opportunities between North Carolina and the Dominican Republic.  

The agreement was signed last Friday during the Embassy of the Dominican Republic’s 2026 Trade and Investment Road Show in North Carolina. NC Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido and Senior Director of Global Strategy Lorena Patterson signed the agreement alongside ADOZONA President Claudia Pellerano. 

The event brought together government officials, business leaders, and economic development partners from North Carolina and the Dominican Republic to explore opportunities in manufacturing, trade, investment, and supply chain collaboration. Discussions highlighted the Dominican Republic’s growing role as a strategic nearshoring destination and opportunities for North Carolina companies seeking to expand throughout the Americas. 

Gary moderated a panel discussion featuring leaders from ADOZONA, ProDominicana, and several of the country’s leading industrial and free trade zone operators. The conversation focused on the Dominican Republic’s competitive advantages, the role of free trade zones in strengthening resilient supply chains, and opportunities for increased collaboration with North Carolina businesses.

 

The MOU reflects the NC Chamber’s continued commitment to expanding international engagement through its International Commerce Division and strengthening relationships with key global trading partners. 

Businesses interested in learning more about international opportunities and staying engaged with the NC Chamber’s International Commerce Division are encouraged to express interest here.