Dominican Rep.: Authorities maintain closure of border crossing with Haiti in Dajabon as of Sept. 11 /update 1

Event

Authorities in the Dominican Republic announced on Sept. 11 that they will maintain the existing closure of the Dajabon border crossing, which connects the country with Haiti, and will completely close the country's borders with Haiti for trade via land, air, and sea from Sept. 14 if the controversial construction of a canal in Haiti does not cease by that date. Haitian businesspeople are reportedly leading the canal construction on the Dajabon River (Masacre River), aiming to increase the supply of water to their farms; Dominican authorities assert that the project is illegal. In addition to threatening a total closure of the Dominican-Haitian border to trade from Sept. 14, Dominican officials have prohibited individuals involved in the construction of the canal from entering the country and halted the issuance of visas to Haitian citizens until further notice.

Significant disruptions to binational transport and business will likely continue while the closure remains in place. Protests and heightened security are also possible in the Dajabon area. A complete closure of the countries' land, air, and sea borders to trade would almost certainly amplify transport and business disruptions, protest activity, and authorities' security measures.

Context

Dominican authorities claim that Haitian officials do not have the capacity to stop the group of Haitian businesspeople from constructing the canal that would divert water from the Dajabon River. This makes it unlikely that construction will be suspended by Sept. 14 as the Dominican government requested, increasing the likelihood of a larger crisis between the two nations.

Advice

Consider avoiding the vicinity of the Dajabon border crossing until the situation stabilizes. Plan for supply-chain disruptions if scheduled to ship or receive goods via the Dajabon border crossing in mid-September. Adhere to all instructions issued by local officials.