U.S Undersecretary hopes Trump administration will continue Open Skies Agreement

United States.- José W. Fernández, Under Secretary of the U.S. Department of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and Environment, expressed optimism that the bilateral Open Skies agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States will proceed under the new administration. With just over a month left in the Biden-Harris Administration, Fernández emphasized that the agreement, which aims to reduce flight costs and increase frequencies between the two countries, is now in the hands of the Dominican Congress. He hopes it will be finalized soon.

Fernández, who personally worked on the agreement, highlighted its potential to offer more affordable flights, particularly for Dominican families, and ensure better connectivity between the two nations. The agreement was signed in August by Fernández and Dominican Minister of Tourism David Collado, in the presence of President Luis Abinader. After passing through the Senate, the agreement now awaits approval by the Chamber of Deputies before being ratified.

During a virtual conference, Fernández also discussed his work with the Dominican Republic, particularly on medical equipment and supply chain initiatives, and his positive relationship with Minister of Industry and Commerce Víctor Bisonó. He praised the country’s role in hosting the Economic and Health Dialogue of the Americas, which aimed to improve regional health systems. The agreement is set to be ratified once both chambers of the Dominican Congress approve it, followed by formal promulgation by President Abinader.

Chinatown in Santo Domingo to host festive Christmas celebrations

Santo Domingo.- The Flor Para Todo Foundation, led by Rosa NG, has announced a series of festive Christmas events in Santo Domingo’s Chinatown, running every Saturday from December 7 to December 21. The vibrant neighborhood will come alive with music, lights, and cultural traditions, providing a joyful experience for both Dominicans and visitors.

Events will take place from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM and feature live music, cultural showcases, and the iconic Sunday food fair. The grand finale on December 21 will include a performance by the international music group Latin Internacional Bang and a culinary celebration of Asian cuisine, featuring dishes from China, Korea, Japan, and Indonesia.

Rosa NG emphasized the neighborhood’s ongoing restoration efforts in collaboration with the city council and Mayor Carolina Mejía, inviting everyone to enjoy the festivities. She highlighted Chinatown as a vibrant space where tradition meets modernity, offering unique experiences during the holiday season.

Air Transat will increase its frequencies between Montreal and Puerto Plata to four

Air Transat reported that it would increase its frequencies to destinations such as Cancun (Mexico) and Puerto Plata (DR)from Montreal, as well as Montego Bay (Jamaica) and Varadero (Cuba) from Toronto.

The airline increased its operations by adding routes to Puerto Plata from 3 to 4. In addition, it will maintain one operation in Samaná and the seven it carries out in Punta Cana.

DestinyFrom MontrealFrom Quebec CityFrom TorontoCancun – Mexico9 (+1)17Cayo Coco – Cuba3Holguin – Cuba32Liberia – Costa Rica2Montego Bay – Jamaica23 (+1)Port-au-Prince – Haiti1Puerto Plata – DR3 (+1)2Punta Cana – DR717Samaná – DR1Santa Clara – Cuba11

The increase is due to medium-haul flights to the south in its flight schedule for the summer of 2025, which includes a new direct route between Montreal and Valencia. Thus, the airline is consolidating its presence in Spain. With the latest addition, the airline offers four destinations in Spain, including Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga.

The 2025 summer program bolsters Air Transat’s offering for the upcoming peak season, totaling more than 275 weekly flights from Montreal, Toronto, and Quebec.

According to the company, incorporating Valencia into its summer program reinforces its strategy of offering diversified travel options.

“The inclusion of Valencia in our summer program, an exclusive non-stop route from the Americas, demonstrates our expertise in offering unique and diversified travel options,” said Sebastián Ponce, Transat’s Chief Commercial Officer.

On the other hand, the airline will maintain its two most popular destinations in Florida, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, with an increase in frequencies to Orlando. Four additional weekly flights will be added to respond to the growing interest in the destination.

It will operate seven weekly flights from Montreal to Fort Lauderdale and one weekly flight from Quebec City. In Orlando, it will operate 14 weekly flights from Montreal.

Dominican Republic surpasses 10 million visitors

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has exceeded 10 million visitors this year, with over 10,005,800 arrivals as of Monday, according to President Luis Abinader and Tourism Minister David Collado. The government aims to surpass 11 million visitors by year-end, highlighting tourism’s crucial role in economic growth and job creation.

In November alone, the country welcomed 881,499 visitors, a 54% increase from November 2019. Of these, 667,450 arrived by air, marking a 44% rise from last year, while 214,454 cruise passengers represented a 93% jump from 2019. Minister Collado assured that tourism incentives will continue to support the sector’s sustained expansion.

At a tourism event in the capital, President Abinader and Minister Collado honored key contributors, including Banco Popular Dominicano and tourism pioneer Frank Rainieri. The event was attended by various stakeholders from the tourism sector and a select group of media outlets, highlighting the sector’s impact on the national economy.

The tourism sector, which employs over 720,000 people and accounts for 18% of national employment, continues to thrive, with 400 hotels offering over 84,000 rooms and a current hotel occupancy rate of 76%.

Punta Cana Airport projects 8% growth in tourism by 2025

Punta Cana.- Punta Cana International Airport, the busiest air terminal in the Dominican Republic with an average of 4.8 million passengers annually, anticipates up to an 8% increase in traveler arrivals by 2025, according to Frank Rainieri, founder and chairman of the Puntacana Group. The airport accounts for 70% of tourist arrivals to the country, significantly impacting the region’s tourism flow.

Rainieri emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to sustain the tourism industry’s growth. “Tourism is not just about hoteliers or governments. We must all work together to ensure social peace and a welcoming environment for visitors,” he stated. In November alone, the airport welcomed 407,748 tourists, representing 61% of the total 667,045 arrivals, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

Acknowledging the Dominican Republic’s strong position as a tourism leader in Latin America, Rainieri highlighted opportunities stemming from challenges in competing Caribbean destinations. He also praised the close partnership between the public and private sectors in developing new tourist areas, noting that collaborative decision-making has been key to the industry’s continued success.

Tourism development in Santiago boosted by opening of AC Marriott

Santiago.- The AC Marriott Hotel in Santiago recently showcased its modern facilities to the board members of the Santiago Tourist Destination Cluster and the Santiago Hotel Association (ASHORES) as part of its pre-inauguration activities. This event highlights the growing tourism dynamism in the city.

The hotel features 140 rooms and suites, 160 parking spaces, a Cigar Lounge, gym, swimming pool, event areas, and several dining options, including the Maximum Rooftop Restaurant and Cielo Rooftop Lounge. Notably, the 288-square-meter Summum Conference Room, with a capacity of 300 people, is set to become a key venue for events and conferences.

Ramón Paulino, president of the Santiago Tourist Destination Cluster, emphasized the city’s tourism growth, noting the importance of the Cluster in driving Santiago’s development as a world-class destination. He highlighted local business support for tourism, stating that Santiago’s entrepreneurs are committed to advancing the city’s tourism industry.

Germán Ulises Polanco, president of ASHORESA, expressed confidence in the AC Marriott’s role in attracting more tourists, creating jobs, and contributing to economic growth. The hotel’s pet-friendly policy further adds to its appeal. The opening of the AC Marriott marks a significant step in strengthening Santiago’s position as a competitive tourist destination.

U.S. Trade Mission promotes diverse business opportunities in the Caribbean

Santo Domingo.- The U.S. Commercial Service, in collaboration with its Embassy in the Dominican Republic, hosted the Global Diversity Export Initiative (GDEI) conference and trade mission in November. The event aimed to foster opportunities for businesses led by underrepresented groups across the Caribbean region. Key speakers included Isabella Cascarano, Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Western Hemisphere; Patricia Aguilera, Chargé d’Affaires; and Vilma Arbaje de Contreras, Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade in the Dominican Republic.

The conference facilitated over 150 one-on-one meetings between U.S. diplomats and industry specialists from the Dominican Republic and neighboring nations such as Jamaica, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, 12 U.S. companies held more than 60 meetings with Dominican businesses, exploring partnership and distribution agreements to strengthen commercial ties.

Data from the U.S. Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) highlights the economic impact of underrepresented groups, with businesses generating $2,000 million in revenue and 9.4 million jobs in 2023. The event also recognized the significant contributions of women-led businesses in the Dominican Republic, particularly in sectors like services and commerce, emphasizing their role in economic growth and job creation. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to expanding trade and investment opportunities throughout the Caribbean.

77% of tourists are more concerned about the experience of their trip than what it costs

Santo Domingo – According to a global travel trends report by American Express Travel, 77% of tourists think more about their experience than what they will spend during their stay. 84% plan to spend more or the same on travel in 2024 compared to last year.

The report also highlights that 78% of travelers want to undertake more spontaneous than planned trips.

These trends are reflected in Dominican tourism, with tourists looking to have more experiences outside of hotels and be closer to the communities in which they will be, said Jacqueline Mora, the technical deputy minister of the Ministry of Tourism.

“What this is telling us is that tourists are (increasingly) looking at the destination,” she said during the AsonahoresTourism Investment Forum 2024, organized by the Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic.

In this context, public-private investment plays a stellar role in providing safe and resilient tourism infrastructures that contribute to better and better tourist experiences.

What Europeans are concerned about

Europe is one of the main source markets for tourists to the Dominican Republic. Still, the economic crisis it is experiencing after the COVID-19 pandemic and the war between Russia and Ukraine has caused them to restrict their trips increasingly.

Mora said that European tourists consider the increase in travel costs, personal finances, and how meteorological phenomena affect destinations before leaving their country.

27% of Europeans have a travel budget of 501 euros to 1,000 euros per person, and only 13% have more than 2,500 euros.

“Today they are looking for less crowded destinations, with lower travel costs, accessible infrastructure, cultural heritage and better transportation routes,” he said.

Shorter stay of Latin Americans

To compensate for this, the country has focused on attracting more tourists from destinations such as Central and South America. Although this is strategic, a Latin American tourist visits the destination for fewer days due to its proximity compared to a European one.

“The European visit lasts eleven days; the Latin American visit lasts four. I need twice as many Latin Americans to mitigate what is happening with Europe, and that is also a great challenge,” acknowledged the official, who considers that the advantage of the Dominican Republic is how much air connectivity with Central and South America has grown.

Arajet launches operations from Punta Cana Airport

Punta Cana.- Arajet inaugurated its operations at Punta Cana Airport (PUJ), marking a significant milestone as the airline exceeded one million passengers in 2024. CEO and founder Víctor Pacheco emphasized Arajet’s commitment to expanding its network across the Americas and transforming the Dominican Republic into a leading air hub. With over 200 connection options, Arajet aims to attract more tourists by offering competitive prices and extensive routes.

Puntacana Group CEO Frank Elías Rainieri praised Arajet’s role in enhancing tourism and air connectivity, acknowledging its trust in Punta Cana’s infrastructure and potential. Giovanni Rainieri, Director of Airside Operations at Punta Cana Airport, highlighted the airline’s economic impact, including job creation and support for local businesses. He noted the airport’s position as a regional leader, handling 68% of the country’s tourist air traffic and connecting with 75 cities globally.

Punta Cana becomes Arajet’s third Dominican destination, with flights to cities in Colombia, Mexico, Ecuador, Canada, Jamaica, Peru, Brazil, and Chile. The airline also continues operations at Las Américas and Cibao airports. Arajet, now the Dominican Republic’s leading airline by passenger traffic, has consistently surpassed 100,000 monthly passengers, solidifying its role in advancing the nation’s commercial aviation sector.

Abinader expresses optimism for Dominican Republic’s economic growth in 2025

Santo Domingo.- During the event “La Semanal con La Prensa,” President Luis Abinader emphasized that economic forecasts predict continued robust growth for the Dominican Republic through 2025. Reflecting on 2024, he celebrated the nation’s progress in reducing poverty and sustaining economic expansion, noting that economic growth has positioned the country as a Latin American leader, with rates improving from 26% in 2019 to an estimated 19% by year-end 2024.

“We are the beacon of light for Latin America,” Abinader declared, underscoring the strong performance of key economic sectors despite global challenges. He acknowledged ongoing national issues but highlighted his administration’s efforts to address public needs and deliver meaningful results.

On corruption, the president reaffirmed his government’s dedication to transparency and justice, asserting that impunity is no longer tolerated. He pointed to legal actions against corrupt officials as evidence of the administration’s commitment to accountability and ethical governance.

Adompretur Puerto Plata backs Sosúa Beach recovery efforts

Puerto Plata.- Adompretur Puerto Plata has endorsed the government’s efforts to restore and redevelop Sosúa Beach, highlighting the project’s importance in preserving natural resources, boosting tourism, and fostering sustainable development for local communities and visitors. The initiative involves a collaborative effort between key institutions, including the Ministry of Environment, SENPA, MITUR, the Dominican Navy, POLITUR, and Sosúa’s Mayor’s Office.

Antonio Almonte, Secretary General of Adompretur Puerto Plata, emphasized the project’s potential to ensure proper use of the beach, create safe and family-friendly environments, and strengthen the local economy. He urged local authorities to maintain order and ensure compliance with conservation measures, while encouraging the community to support and protect the revitalized spaces.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the project’s implementation, ensuring it aligns with principles of conservation and sustainable development. Adompretur also expressed its readiness to collaborate further, aiming to transform Sosúa Beach into a renewed and welcoming destination for families and tourists alike.

Source: N Digital

Spanish Chamber President: Dominican Republic experiencing peak investment climate

Santo Domingo.- Francisco José Pérez Menéndez, president of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the Dominican Republic and Air Europa’s local representative, emphasized the country’s thriving conditions for foreign investment. He attributed this success to an improved business environment, enhanced legal security, and streamlined administrative procedures, marking a peak in the nation’s attractiveness to investors.

Spain ranks as the Dominican Republic’s second-largest foreign investor, contributing $668 million in 2023 across tourism, renewable energy, and infrastructure. Despite a trade imbalance—$100 million in Dominican exports to Spain versus $1,000 million in imports—exports to Europe are steadily increasing. Pérez Menéndez also lauded tax incentives as vital for boosting foreign investment and offsetting infrastructure gaps. A notable milestone is the recent contract awarded to a Spanish firm to construct the Cabo Rojo airport in Pedernales.

The Spanish Chamber continues to promote technological and knowledge exchanges, enhancing bilateral trade. Pérez Menéndez expressed optimism about growing interest in renewable energy projects, leveraging the Dominican Republic’s abundant natural resources, such as wind and solar power, to foster sustainable development.

Dominican Republic to launch electronic passports in 2025

Santo Domingo.- The Director General of Passports (DGP), Lorenzo Ramírez, announced that the Dominican Republic will issue its first electronic passport in 2025 as part of a comprehensive modernization plan aimed at transforming the institution into a model of efficiency in public service. Appointed through presidential decree 314-24, Ramírez has prioritized enhancing the institution’s services, revealing that daily capacity has increased to serve around 2,000 citizens. A stabilized electronic appointment system has eliminated long queues, and office hours at Sambil and Megacentro have been extended to Saturdays, with future plans to introduce home delivery of passports.

The introduction of biometric passports, featuring advanced security measures like polycarbonate materials and embedded microchips, aims to reduce identity theft and forgery risks. A rigorous tender process is underway to procure the necessary materials, software, and hardware for the project. Despite the complexity of implementation due to high technological and security requirements, the first electronic passports are expected to roll out next year.

The modernization effort extends to infrastructure upgrades. The current DGP headquarters, built in the 1970s, lacks the space and accessibility required for modern operations. Plans are in motion to relocate most services to a new, state-of-the-art building designed to improve user experience, reduce waiting times, and accommodate expanded technological systems. While some operations will remain at the original site, the transition underscores the institution’s commitment to providing efficient and accessible services to citizens.

Punta Cana: a top thanksgiving travel destination

Punta Cana.- Thanksgiving, traditionally celebrated as a family gathering at home, has evolved into an opportunity for many to explore new destinations. Travelers are increasingly using the holiday to venture abroad, making the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean some of the most sought-after locations. These regions offer direct flights, luxury accommodations, and diverse cultural experiences, appealing to a wide range of preferences.

In the Caribbean, hotspots like Punta Cana, Cancun, and Jamaica attract families and couples seeking sun-soaked escapes. Meanwhile, European cities such as Paris, London, and Barcelona draw tourists with a blend of historic landmarks and festive Christmas markets, which begin around this time. These destinations provide a mix of relaxation and exploration, making them ideal for a Thanksgiving getaway.

Travel statistics from AAA reveal that November 26 to December 2 is the peak period for Thanksgiving bookings. Travelers favor convenient, well-connected locations offering entertainment for all demographics. Popular choices include package deals combining flights, accommodations, and activities, emphasizing efficiency and value during this festive season.

Tourism fuels Dominican economy

Santo Domingo.- The tourism sector in the Dominican Republic has become a key driver of economic growth, generating approximately US$85,469 million in foreign exchange over the past 13 years. In 2023, the industry saw a 17% increase compared to 2022, highlighting its continued expansion. Tourism now accounts for 8.2% of the country’s GDP and represents more than 20% of its foreign currency income.

The Dominican Republic has evolved from a traditional economy to one where services, particularly tourism, are increasingly important. The country’s hotel infrastructure consists of 981 establishments with 87,723 rooms, concentrated mainly in six destinations. Bavaro-Punta Cana, located in La Altagracia province, leads with 60.26% of the rooms, followed by Puerto Plata, the National District, Samana, and San Pedro de Macoris.

The Dominican Republic aims to break its tourism record in 2024 by welcoming 11.5 million visitors, surpassing the 10.3 million who arrived in 2023. Punta Cana’s airport is the busiest, handling over 50% of international arrivals, with the José Francisco Peña Gómez Airport (Las Américas) receiving around 30%. This growth is linked to the concentration of hotel rooms in these regions, particularly in La Altagracia.

JAC expects 1.7 million passengers for the Dominican Republic in December

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s international airports are gearing up for a record-breaking Christmas season, with the Civil Aviation Board (JAC) projecting around 1,755,000 passengers for December 2024. JAC president Hector Porcella highlighted that 956,000 of these travelers will be Dominicans living abroad—primarily in the United States and Europe—returning home for the holidays, while an estimated 798,000 will be outbound passengers. This marks a 6% increase over last year’s holiday season, signaling robust growth in the aviation sector.

Porcella noted the increase in December’s projected air traffic as a promising sign for bolstering the country’s air connectivity and commercial aviation industry. He emphasized that the Christmas season offers an ideal metric for evaluating the sector’s performance, reflecting a notable rise in domestic travelers on both local and international flights.

November 2024 is also expected to see significant air traffic, with approximately 715,000 inbound passengers and 680,000 outbound, totaling around 1,396,000 passengers. Overall, the year is projected to close with 133,850 total flight operations at Dominican airports, up 6% from last year’s 125,000 operations, underscoring the sector’s steady growth.

Punta Cana awarded for excellence in MICE Tourism 2024

Punta Cana.- Punta Cana, a leading holiday destination globally, is gaining recognition in meeting and event tourism (MICE). The destination was recently awarded for “Excellence in the MICE 2024 Segment,” based on a national survey of congress organizers, business conventions, and tourism providers. This acknowledgment highlights Punta Cana’s growing reputation as a top-tier location for meetings and events.

The award, presented in Mexico by Convenciones Latinoamérica magazine, evaluated key aspects such as operational ease, cleanliness, security, hotel diversity, event facilities, and professionalism in the value chain. Punta Cana’s strong airport infrastructure and road connectivity further contributed to its recognition. Efforts by the Dominican Ministry of Tourism, including participation in trade fairs and training initiatives, have bolstered the MICE segment, showcasing the country’s unique offerings for corporate and international events.

MICE tourism plays a crucial role in enhancing sustainability and profitability by balancing seasonal demand. Punta Cana’s robust infrastructure, with over 43,000 hotel rooms, many catering to luxury and meetings, positions it as a key player in the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector. The Mexican market continues to drive growth, strengthening ties and reaffirming Punta Cana’s commitment to exceptional service and quality experiences.

Dominican Republic to launch table grape exports in April

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic will begin exporting table grapes in April of next year, according to Agriculture Minister Limber Cruz. These grapes, representing various high-quality varieties, have been planted in five of the 11 identified regions suitable for grape cultivation across the country. The first harvest is expected in the initial months of the year, marking a new export product for the Dominican agricultural sector.

Minister Cruz highlighted that the country already exports a range of fruits—such as bananas, avocados, mangoes, chestnuts, and citrus—to multiple international markets. Additionally, exports include root crops and other produce like cassava, sweet potatoes, coffee, cocoa, bell peppers, and oriental vegetables.

Cruz also assured that the country is well-stocked for the holiday season, with an ample supply of staples including chicken, pork, rice, fruits, and vegetables, ensuring no shortages in the local market.

Source: Hoy

Environment Ministry orders eviction of Luperón Bay Refuge to protect ecosystem

Puerto Plata.- The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has ordered residents of the Luperón Bay Wildlife Refuge in Puerto Plata to vacate the protected area within 15 days due to significant environmental damage. Minister Paíno Henriquez, who inspected the site, stated that these occupants—about 200 people—are polluting the wetland in the Mangles Abajo sector by dumping waste and building unauthorized structures that disrupt the natural water flow, worsening trash accumulation.

Henríquez has requested assistance from the Ministry of the Presidency to manage the social impact on those affected, with a meeting scheduled to discuss relocation options for the families before their homes are demolished. After the area is vacated, the Ministry plans to promote sustainable tourism development to protect the bay’s valuable ecosystems, which support manatees, seabirds, mangroves, and seagrass meadows—key resources for local economic growth and coastal protection against hurricanes.

Arajet launches non-stop flights between Punta Cana and Guayaquil

Santo Domingo.- Arajet has launched a new non-stop flight route between Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and Guayaquil, Ecuador, making it the only airline to offer direct service between the two cities. The route will operate twice a week, with flights departing from Punta Cana on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. and Sundays at 10:13 p.m. The return flights from Guayaquil will depart on Mondays at 4:17 a.m. and Fridays at 12:04 p.m. All flights will be operated using Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, with a capacity of 185 passengers.

The new route will provide residents of Guayaquil with a direct connection to the eastern part of the Dominican Republic, a key tourism hub in the Caribbean. Benjamin Garces, Commercial Consultant at Arajet, highlighted the convenience of this service for travelers. Ramón Miró, President and CEO of Corporación Quiport, emphasized the significance of the new connection for both tourism and business, reaffirming the airport’s commitment to enhancing services and fostering regional development.