Customs Laboratory positions itself as a key axis for the development of rare earths in the DR

Santo Domingo.- The Orlando Jorge Mera Laboratory, of the General Customs Directorate (DGA), was highlighted as a strategic infrastructure to strengthen the participation of the Dominican Republic in the global market for critical minerals, especially rare earths. This was stated by the Minister of Energy and Mines, Joel Santos, during a tour of the facilities alongside the Director General of Customs, Nelson Arroyo. The official explained that the laboratory plays a fundamental role in the industrial, mining, and commercial development of the country, especially in projects such as the exploration of rare earths in Pedernales.

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Santos also highlighted the progress in the accreditation process under the ISO 17025 standard for the analysis of metals and rare earths, a certification that would guarantee the quality and reliability of the results, with the goal of obtaining it before the end of 2026. He indicated that the Ministry of Energy and Mines and the Dominican Mining Company (Emidom) have allocated close to RD$12 million to strengthen the technical capabilities of the laboratory and continue its modernization. During the visit, the Operations coordinator, Emmanuel Echavarría, pointed out that the acquisition of specialized equipment, such as a Solid Sample ICP-MS system valued at approximately US$1 million, would reduce costs and accelerate the accreditation process. From his side, the head of the laboratory, Aris Mendis Gómez, highlighted that the institution has evolved from a merely customs role to become a key scientific support for the State and the private sector. Currently, the laboratory is participating in the analysis of samples from the rare earth project in Pedernales, an initiative that seeks to insert the country into the global chain of strategic minerals.