Puerto Plata and La Romana to receive 70% of February’s cruise arrivals

Santo Domingo.- According to the Dominican Port Authority, 70% of the cruise ships arriving in the country this February will dock at the ports of Puerto Plata and La Romana, reinforcing the steady growth of the cruise tourism industry.

Taino Bay leads in cruise arrivals with 51 ships, followed by Amber Cove with 28. Throughout the month, cruise liners carrying between 3,000 and 6,000 passengers will make daily stops, with an average of two vessels per day. Among the arriving ships are Aida Luna, Costa Fascinosa, Norwegian Epic, Scarlet Lady, Carnival Celebration, and MSC Seascape, among others.

These arrivals align with the government’s efforts to attract cruise passengers outside the traditional peak season, which runs from October to April. The influx of visitors is expected to boost local economies by driving tourism to various destinations across the country.

Senate and Tourism Ministry collaborate on ecotourism development

Santo Domingo.- Senator Ginette Bournigal, president of the Senate’s Permanent Commission on Tourism, led a meeting with Vice Minister of Tourism Patricia Mejía and other senators to discuss the designation of ecotourism provinces. A technical committee was formed to oversee the initiative and ensure effective implementation.

Bournigal emphasized that the traditional “sun, beach, and sand” tourism model is evolving, making ecotourism a key opportunity for showcasing the country’s natural resources. While laws have declared certain areas as ecotourism provinces, past efforts lacked funding and coordination with the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR). However, the government has now committed to allocating funds based on factors such as population density and infrastructure development. Provinces that did not receive funds this year will be supported in preparing for the 2026 budget cycle.

The senator stressed the importance of transparency in managing these resources and reiterated that legislators will act as supervisors rather than direct decision-makers. She also called for stricter adherence to legislative intent when implementing tourism policies, ensuring that ecotourism initiatives benefit communities across the Dominican Republic.

Ministry of Labor announces employment day in Puerto Plata for Punta Cana hotel

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Labor is inviting individuals to participate in an employment day for a hotel in Punta Cana, scheduled for Friday, January 31, in Puerto Plata. The event will run from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the National Institute for Technical and Professional Training (Infotep) in Puerto Plata, located on Prolongación Hermanas Mirabal Street (formerly the Montemar Hotel).

A total of 150 job vacancies are available across various positions, including warehouse, animation, kitchen, lodging, maintenance, restaurants, customer service, laundry, tailoring, general services, security, and spa.

Interested candidates must register online at rdtrabaja.mt.gob.do or call (809) 244-4744 or (809) 917-4745 for more information. The Ministry of Labor noted that the recruitment process may vary by company, with some positions requiring more time due to their specific nature.

Dominican Republic secures US$6,750 million in investments at FITUR 2025

Madrid, Spain.- Tourism Minister David Collado hailed the Dominican Republic’s participation in FITUR 2025 as a resounding success, with investments totaling US$6,750 million—nearly doubling last year’s US$3,500 million.

During his traditional post-event breakfast, Collado detailed the impact of these investments on the country. Banco Popular Dominicano secured US$2,500 million in agreements, Banreservas finalized deals worth US$2,000 million, and Banco BHD also achieved US$2,000 million. Proamerica, in its first participation, contributed an additional US$250 million.

These investments will result in 7,400 new hotel rooms, 713,000 additional tourists, 47,800 jobs, and US$477 million in foreign exchange earnings.

Collado also announced agreements with major airlines, including Iberia, Air Europa, Aeroméxico, and Air Transat, adding 500,000 new seats in the European market for 2025.

The minister emphasized that improving air connectivity remains the tourism cabinet’s primary goal for the year, underscoring the Dominican Republic’s successful positioning as a global tourism leader.

Dominican economy grows 5% in 2024, reports Central Bank

Santo Domingo.- In 2024, the Dominican Republic’s economy grew by 5%, in line with projections from the Central Bank and the government, reinforcing its position as a leader in Latin America among the 17 largest economies. Inflation remained within the target range of 4% ± 1%, closing the year at 3.35%, the lowest in six years.

The tourism sector saw 11.2 million visitors, with 8.5 million arriving by air and about 2.6 million by cruise. The Central Bank continued to lower its monetary policy rate, reducing it by 275 basis points since May 2023 to 5.75%. Additionally, the Monetary Board approved the release of approximately RD$35,000 million in legal reserve resources, providing liquidity to the financial system.

Private sector credit grew by 13.4%, while remittances reached a historic US$10,756  million, a 5.9% increase. Foreign direct investment (FDI) totaled US$4,512 million, exceeding US$4,000 million for the third consecutive year. Preliminary data showed foreign exchange earnings of US$43,500 million, with a 5.0% depreciation of the Dominican peso, lower than in other regional economies. International reserves reached US$13,388 million by year-end, surpassing the International Monetary Fund’s conventional metrics.

Collado: “It is essential that the Dominican Republic gets cheaper flights”

The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, reiterated in his participation in the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) 2025, that the country will focus on seeking more hotel investments, as well as on the expansion of new airlines, as he affirms that it is an “abuse” that air tickets to travel to Dominican soil are so expensive.

“What we are doing is promoting investment and then air connectivity. It is essential that the Dominican Republic gets cheaper flights. It is an abuse what happens with flights from New York, what happens with flights from Miami and Puerto Rico to the DR the fares (…) it costs you 4 and 5 thousand dollars to go to the Dominican Republic,” he criticized.

Collado indicated that the Dominican stand at Fitur is also focused on investment, adding that the country is in need of about 30,000 new rooms.

He said that the main Dominican banks present at Fitur are already having important meetings to invest in new projects, according to Z Digital.

Dominican Republic wins award for best stand at Fitur 2025

The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, recently announced that the Dominican Republic won the award for Best Standduring the International Tourism Fair (Fitur) 2025, held January 22-26 in Madrid, Spain.

“We did it again, making history in the world. The Dominican Republic once again shone here at Fitur by winning the award for the best stand at this international tourism fair,” he said.

The minister received the award parchment from Sofia Alonso, a jury member, and Angela Lozano, a fair organizing team member.

After handing over the parchment, in a ceremony that took place at the Dominican stand, both highlighted how “impressive” it was, where the beauty of the Dominican Republic can be appreciated through technology.

Collado expressed his gratitude for the distinction and pointed out that the stand exhibits a sample of the Dominican Republic’s offerings as a tourist destination.

Frank Rainieri highlights Infotep’s role in Dominican tourism growth

Madrid.- Frank Rainieri, founder of the Puntacana Group, praised the National Institute of Technical Professional Training (Infotep) for its significant contributions to the Dominican Republic’s tourism development. Speaking at Fitur 2025, Rainieri emphasized Infotep as a global example of effective collaboration between business, labor, and government in transforming lives through technical training.

Rainieri underscored the importance of aligning workforce training with the rapid expansion of hotel infrastructure, noting that improving service quality enhances the industry’s economic impact. He also highlighted Infotep’s role in projects like Punta Bergantín in Puerto Plata, which integrates local communities into tourism through training and employment opportunities.

Additionally, Rainieri commended Infotep’s efforts in preparing personnel for emerging tourist destinations such as Miches, Pedernales, and Bergantín, describing hotels as “small cities” requiring diverse technical skills. He affirmed that Infotep’s work is vital to sustaining the growth of visitor arrivals, benefiting businesses, communities, and the nation as a whole.

Dominican Republic launches sustainable gastronomic tourism initiative

Madrid.- At FITUR 2025 in Madrid, Spain, the Dominican Restaurant Association (ADERES), the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), and Banreservas, in collaboration with ASONAHORES, announced the implementation of sustainable gastronomic tourism strategies.

Designed by BCC Innovation, a leading gastronomic technology center, the initiative aims to transform the Dominican Republic’s culinary landscape over the next five years, positioning the country as the Caribbean’s gastronomic leader by 2030.

Omar Cepeda Darauche, president of ADERES, emphasized the plan’s focus on the value chain of Dominican gastronomy, integrating cultural roots, local talent, and productive capacities. He noted that gastronomy plays a vital role in the nation’s tourism and economic development, with surveys showing high tourist satisfaction—92% of visitors express a desire to return due to their positive culinary experiences.

The strategic plan, initiated in late 2023, involved nationwide research, workshops, and consultations with key stakeholders in tourism, business, and government sectors.

The strategies include defining a unique Dominican gastronomic identity, promoting local products, fostering culinary innovation, and enhancing professional training and competitiveness. Additionally, the initiative seeks to create contemporary culinary experiences that showcase the country’s diverse flavors and regions.

Supported by industry leaders and institutions, ADERES reaffirms its commitment to elevating Dominican gastronomy as a cultural and economic pillar for both locals and visitors.

CEPM unveils bold 2025 sustainable energy plans at FITUR 2025

Madrid.- The Consorcio Energético Punta Cana-Macao (CEPM) has announced ambitious plans for 2025 during the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), reinforcing its dedication to sustainable energy development and the growth of the Dominican Republic’s eastern tourism region.

As part of the CEPM Zero initiative, the company plans to expand its energy generation capacity by upgrading its Punta Cana 11 plant with four high-efficiency Wärtsilä engines, adding 37.05 MW to its grid. CEPM will also launch four solar parks with a combined capacity of 203 MWp and implement a cutting-edge energy storage system (BESS) with 115 MWh across seven strategic locations. These projects will ensure a reliable energy supply and support the rising demand from the hospitality sector.

“We are committed to sustainable development by proactively integrating renewable energy and anticipating the growth of the hotel sector,” said Rolando González Bunster, CEPM President.

Driving energy transition with renewable innovations

CEPM, a pioneer in the Dominican Republic’s sustainable energy transition, will lead the operation of four new solar parks in 2025, part of a broader portfolio of 37 photovoltaic projects totaling 270 MWp. Collaborating with 21 international hotel chains, these projects will produce 474,340 MWh of clean energy over the next 15 years, reducing CO2 emissions by 270,848 tons.

In its 32 years of operation, CEPM has invested over $1.1 billion in energy infrastructure, solidifying its role as a key driver of international investment and tourism development. Its concession area supports 65% of the nation’s hotel capacity, powering over 58,000 hotel rooms.

Looking ahead, the CEPM Zero project aims to invest $1 billion to expand renewable energy capacity to nearly 800 MW by 2030, utilizing solar, wind, green hydrogen, and advanced battery storage systems. The ultimate goal is carbon neutrality, transforming CEPM’s concession area into a sustainable tourism destination.

Innovation for tourism sustainability

CEPM has developed advanced solutions like District Energy, which reduces hotel operating costs by up to 30%. This innovative system uses waste heat from power plants to provide hot and cold water through a 14-kilometer network, benefiting more than 28,000 hotel rooms.

In 2025, CEPM will enhance its customer experience with AI-driven service platforms for over 68,000 residential, commercial, and hotel clients. The company also plans to expand its transmission and distribution networks, ensuring efficient energy delivery to meet the region’s growing needs.

About CEPM

CEPM is a leader in energy generation, transmission, distribution, and commercialization in the Dominican Republic. With over 32 years of experience, 335 MW of installed capacity, and more than 1,600 kilometers of networks, CEPM powers the majority of the nation’s hotel infrastructure, setting the standard for sustainable innovation in the tourism industry.

Dominican Republic advanced as a regional nearshoring hub in 2024

Santo Domingo.- The National Trade Facilitation Committee (CNFC) made significant strides in 2024, positioning the Dominican Republic as a strategic nearshoring hub. With 90% of its specialized working groups reactivated, the CNFC executed initiatives to enhance logistics and international trade, including over 50 follow-up meetings and strategic projects such as establishing an inter-institutional canine training center and launching the Free Trade Zones and Special Regimes Roundtable.

A key achievement was the first-ever Logistics Summit in April, organized with private-sector collaboration. The event showcased the country as a competitive logistics and supply chain hub, strengthening its international market position. Additionally, the re-election of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR) as CNFC general secretary for two more years underscored the importance of public-private partnerships.

The CNFC, tasked with implementing the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement, unites public and private stakeholders, including key ministries and business groups like CONEP and AMCHAMDR. Its efforts, highlighted by customs innovations and collaborative initiatives, reinforce the Dominican Republic’s leadership in trade facilitation, investment, and economic growth.

Nelson Suárez: mass deportations in the U.S. could impact Dominican economy

Santo Domingo.- The economic policies of former U.S. President Donald Trump, including proposed high tariffs on nations like China, Mexico, Canada, and the EU, raised concerns for Latin America, particularly the Dominican Republic. Economist Nelson Suárez highlighted the potential risks, noting that approximately 2.4 million Dominicans—22% of the population—reside in the U.S., with their remittances contributing 8% of the country’s GDP, rivaling the economic impact of tourism.

Suárez warned that stricter immigration policies and mass deportations could severely affect undocumented Dominicans in the U.S., many of whom overstay tourist visas. He emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the number of Dominicans at risk, urging the government to prioritize this issue and collect accurate data.

Additionally, Suárez advised Dominican authorities to maintain neutrality in international relations, avoiding alignment with specific ideological positions until the full impact of U.S. policies becomes clear. He stressed that potential disruptions to remittances and migration could jeopardize the country’s economic stability.

Abinader highlights Trump’s positive view of Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Dominican President Luis Abinader underscored recent comments by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who commended the Dominican Republic for its effective governance. Rubio’s remarks reflect the positive perspective of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, which began its new term on Monday.

During his weekly media briefing, Abinader stated, “This perspective was already expressed by Secretary of State Rubio when he said the Dominican Republic is one of the countries where things are done well. This demonstrates the favorable view that President Trump’s administration has of our government.” The president made these comments in response to questions about the outlook for bilateral relations under Trump’s renewed leadership, following a period of strong ties with outgoing President Joe Biden.

Rubio’s praise, delivered during his Senate confirmation hearing, highlighted the Dominican Republic’s effective management of border challenges with Haiti, its rapid recovery from the pandemic, and the resurgence of its tourism industry. Trump, in his inaugural address, vowed to restore America’s global standing. After serving as president from 2017 to 2021, Trump returned to power in November’s elections, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris.

Dominican Senate strengthens ties with Massachusetts lawmakers to support diaspora

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Senate welcomed a delegation of senators from Massachusetts to enhance legislative collaboration and explore initiatives benefiting the Dominican diaspora in the U.S. Discussions focused on social, educational, and labor rights, aiming to improve the quality of life for Dominicans residing in Massachusetts.

This meeting underscores the Senate’s efforts to build relationships with international legislative bodies and promote the welfare of citizens abroad. Previously, the Senate engaged with lawmakers from New York, resulting in collaboration on significant laws, including the Asset Forfeiture Law, which advances justice and transparency.

The visit reaffirms the Dominican Senate’s commitment to strengthening its legislative framework and fostering partnerships that benefit Dominicans both domestically and internationally.

Dominican Republic relaunches country brand at FITUR 2025

Madrid, Spain.- The Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, relaunched the nation’s country brand before hundreds of international tour operators and travel agents during a dinner at Las Ventas Bullring. The event, held on the eve of the FITUR tourism fair, aimed to strengthen the country’s appeal as a premier long-distance tourist destination.

Addressing industry leaders, including airline executives, Collado emphasized his commitment to revitalizing the European market. He highlighted the Dominican Republic’s unique attractions, such as its stunning natural beauty, rich gastronomy, and cultural heritage. Collado also underscored the deep historical and cultural ties between Spain and the Dominican Republic.

The Minister announced that the Dominican Republic’s stand at FITUR would showcase these attributes, demonstrating the country’s leadership in tourism through a strong public-private partnership. FITUR, one of the world’s largest tourism fairs, runs from Wednesday to Sunday.

Dominican Republic aims to double tourism to 20 million visitors

Madrid, Spain.- The Dominican Republic aims to double its tourist numbers to 20 million in the coming years through a well-organized and diversified approach, according to Tourism Minister David Collado. Speaking at the FITUR 2025 fair in Madrid, Collado highlighted efforts to showcase the country’s offerings beyond its famous beaches, emphasizing sports, cultural, historical, and gastronomic tourism.

Currently the second most visited destination in Latin America, the Dominican Republic welcomed a record 11 million tourists in 2024, surpassing its population of 10.5 million. With tourism contributing 15% of GDP and driving over half of the country’s economic growth in recent years, the government plans to expand infrastructure, including new cruise terminals in Puerto Plata, Arroyo Barril, and Pedernales.

Collado also underscored the importance of strengthening air connectivity with Europe and attracting foreign investment. Agreements with airlines like Air Europa, Iberia, and Edelweiss Air are set to enhance access. Notably, Spanish investors own 45% of the country’s hotel rooms, reinforcing strong historical and economic ties between Spain and the Dominican Republic.

Puerto Plata’s muscle in cruise ships: it captures more than 80% of arrivals in the Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata — The Ámber Cove and Taíno Bay terminals, which operate in the tourist destination of Puerto Plata, received 82.6% of the 2 million, 656,305 cruise passengers who arrived in the country last year.

According to statistics provided by the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), 994,609 passengers arrived at the Taino Bay port in 2024, 34.8% more than in the previous year, when 203 operations were registered at that terminal.

Meanwhile, at the Amber Cove terminal, owned by Carnival Corporation and located in the district of Maimon, one million 201 thousand 255 passengers arrived, 45.2% more than those recorded in 2023, when 285 operations were recorded.

The report offered by the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, establishes that the set of national terminals receiving cruise arrivals received a total of two million 656 thousand 305 passengers in 2024, 141% more than that registered the previous year when one million 552 thousand 407 cruise passengers arrived.

Other ports favored in this aspect were La Romana, San Souci (Santo Domingo), Isla Catalina, Samaná, and Cabo Rojo-Pedernales.

The Romana terminal registered the arrival of 336,703 cruise passengers, for 12.7%; San Souci, with 24,426, equivalent to 0.9%; Isla Catalina, with 43,760, for 1%.
According to El Hoy, Samaná had 43,926 passengers or 2.4%, and Pedernales had 11,626 cruise passengers or 0.4%.

Dominican Republic aims to boost investments and air connectivity at FITUR 2025

Santo Domingo.- Tourism Minister David Collado announced that the Dominican Republic’s focus at the International Tourism Fair (FITUR) 2025, held from January 22 to 26 in Madrid, will be securing new investments and enhancing air connectivity.

Collado emphasized the importance of these goals, stating that improved connectivity will attract more tourists, while increased investments will lead to additional accommodations and a more diverse tourism offering. Known for its innovative proposals and achievements, the Dominican Republic has solidified its reputation as a top Caribbean destination.

This year’s FITUR presentation will feature an immersive 3D stand with interactive experiences, exclusive networking areas, over 60 business modules, and a packed work agenda. Key outcomes are expected to include strategic agreements with airlines and tour operators, announcements of innovative projects, and new hotel investments to expand the country’s tourism capacity and global leadership.

Nelson Núñez signs agreement to launch whale-watching season

Santo Domingo.- Nelson Núñez, mayor of Samaná and president of the Dominican Federation of Municipalities (Fedomu), joined Environment Minister Paíno Henríquez to inaugurate the 2025 marine mammal observation season. Henríquez praised Núñez’s efforts in conserving the whales that annually migrate to Samaná’s warm waters, pledging the Ministry’s full support for initiatives promoting preservation, nature tourism, and sustainable development.

The whale-watching season runs from January 15 to March 15 in Samaná Bay, with extended observation until April 15 at Banco de la Plata. The Ministry reported improvements in infrastructure, including upgraded ticket offices and visitor facilities, to enhance the tourist experience.

Last year, approximately 60,000 tourists visited the whale sanctuary, highlighting the region’s importance as an eco-tourism destination. Representatives from the Samaná Boat Owners Association and the Dominican Navy also participated in the agreement signing, underscoring collaborative efforts to ensure the success of this iconic season.

Mayor Carolina Mejía highlights achievements in Santo Domingo for 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Mayor’s Office of the National District, led by Carolina Mejía, made significant strides in 2024, focusing on improving infrastructure, recovering public spaces, and enhancing the quality of life for Santo Domingo’s residents. Mejía emphasized that well-being is rooted in maintaining order and cleanliness.

The administration renovated 186 parks, plazas, and public spaces, with 16 parks reconstructed in 2024, including Luisa Ozema Pellerano, Ambiental Los Próceres, and Urbanización AESA. Infrastructure improvements included 15,469.83 square meters of sidewalks and 3,592.49 linear meters of curbs. Community projects added 28,745.49 m² of sidewalks, 14,591.53 linear meters of curbs, and 287 filter wells. Additionally, 16 speed bumps, 69 LED lights, and over 15,803 square meters of potholes were repaired.

A key milestone was the inauguration of Centro Futuro in Cristo Rey, offering technical-professional training for individuals aged 16 and over, aimed at boosting employment opportunities. The city council also beautified funeral homes, cemeteries, and other spaces, painting over 218,325 square meters in various areas.

In a push to reclaim public spaces, 32,000 linear meters of illegally occupied areas were recovered. Additionally, the city council cleaned over 2,442 collectors and drains, 523 sewers, and 1,025 filter wells. Operations included constructing culverts, grills, and covers to improve urban functionality.