Dominican VP Peña Honors Sugar Giant CAEI as Top Agribusiness

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — Vice President Raquel Peña led a ceremony Tuesday honoring the Consorcio Azucarero de Empresas Industriales (CAEI) as "Agroempresa del Año 2025" (Agribusiness of the Year 2025), an award presented by the Dominican Agribusiness Board (JAD).

Peña highlighted CAEI's extensive history and its consistent contributions to the nation's economy and the communities where it operates. She commended the consortium for its role in creating dignified employment and implementing social programs that strengthen families and stimulate regional development.

"From the government led by President Luis Abinader, we reaffirm our determination to continue supporting the agricultural sector and national industry," Peña stated. "We want them to prosper, export more, and remain a source of pride for the Dominican Republic."

The "Agroempresa del Año" is the JAD's highest honor, recognizing CAEI's 143 years of work in promoting innovation, sustainability, and best practices within the sugar industry.

Roberto Serrano, president of the JAD's Board of Directors, explained that the award celebrates companies and producers who advance agricultural development nationwide. He emphasized the recognition aims to highlight those modernizing production, enhancing sustainability, and boosting international competitiveness.

Osmar C. Benítez, JAD's executive president, described CAEI as "a modern and deeply responsible institution." He added that its vision integrates efficient production, sustainable management, clean energy, research, and community development.

CAEI is recognized as a pioneer in adopting modern agricultural tools. The company integrates ground sensors, satellite imagery, automation, predictive models, and advanced data management to boost productivity.

The company's social, economic, and environmental initiatives are primarily concentrated in the San Pedro de Macorís province. These efforts include job training, environmental education campaigns, coastal cleanup projects, and biodiversity protection.

CAEI also participates in the Multisectoral Coalition for the Conservation of the Higuamo River Basin, supporting sanitation and reforestation projects.

The award ceremony took place at the Renaissance Jaragua Hotel & Casino's Anacaona Hall. Attendees included leaders from the agricultural sector, representatives from international organizations, and government officials.