Collado leads Confotur meeting to drive tourism investment

Santo Domingo.- In a collaborative effort to enhance transparency and sustainability in the Dominican Republic’s tourism sector, Minister of Tourism David Collado joined Finance Minister Jochi Vicente and Environment Minister Paíno Henríquez for a key meeting of the Tourism Development Council (Confotur). The meeting, attended by private sector representatives, focused on strategies to ensure strict adherence to Confotur’s regulations.

Collado emphasized the importance of working closely with the business sector to maintain the Dominican Republic’s position as a leading tourist destination, while prioritizing environmental sustainability and transparency. “We are committed to ensuring tourism development is orderly, transparent, and sustainable,” he stated.

Vicente and Henríquez underscored the significance of inter-institutional collaboration to foster tourism investment while safeguarding the country’s natural resources. The meeting reaffirmed the Dominican government’s dedication to promoting responsible tourism as a key driver of economic growth.

New Asonahores president advocates for regulation of real estate tourism

Samaná, DR.- With the growing trend of real estate tourism, the new president of the Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores), Juan “Papo” Bancalari, stressed the need for regulation in this sector. He emphasized that all hotel projects should comply with the country’s laws.

“We, at the Hotel Association, want the regulation of real estate tourism. It should be serious and organized tourism,” Bancalari stated.

He specifically addressed the need for regulating room rentals through digital platforms like Airbnb, noting that proper regulation is essential for the health of the sector.

Speaking before the inauguration of several projects funded by the Ministry of Tourism in the Samaná province, Bancalari pointed out that the region is currently witnessing a significant shift toward real estate tourism, thanks to its picturesque beaches.

“There is a lot of small-scale real estate tourism. In Samaná, serious and well-regulated projects are already underway, but everything that grows in this area must follow this same path,” he added.

RD Vial commits to modern tolls and road renovations

Santo Domingo.- The RD Vial Trust emphasized the crucial role of toll system resources in continuing the modernization of the Dominican Republic’s road infrastructure, ensuring connectivity and fostering economic growth nationwide.

Among the key developments, RD Vial highlighted the completion of the Azua Beltway, which has significantly improved mobility in the southern region. The Baní Beltway, set to be delivered in three months, will enhance traffic flow in the southwest. Other ongoing projects include the San Francisco de Macorís, Navarrete, and Santiago Beltways, as well as the Barahona-Enriquillo-Pedernales Highway, which aims to boost tourism and commerce in the south. Additionally, the Ecological Avenue project is advancing to promote sustainable urban mobility.

Efforts to alleviate traffic congestion are also underway, such as the overpass being constructed at the “Pintura” intersection on Avenida 27 de Febrero, which will ease traffic in Santo Domingo. Toll revenues are also funding the maintenance of existing roads, including asphalting, patching, safety improvements, and toll station upgrades.

RD Vial emphasized that tolls are an investment in the country’s future, with every peso collected contributing to projects that enhance road infrastructure and improve citizens’ quality of life. The trust reaffirmed its commitment to continued development, promising more modern tolls, new projects, and road renovations to build a better future for the nation.

President Abinader donates 2024 salary to charitable causes

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader has announced that he will donate his entire salary for the year 2024 to charitable institutions across the Dominican Republic. This marks the continuation of a practice he has followed since taking office in August 2020, benefiting various causes throughout the country. For 2024, Abinader has allocated RD$6,012,000.00 to support projects aimed at addressing social needs and aiding the most vulnerable communities.

The donations primarily focus on community aid, children’s support, nursing homes, labor inclusion, religious causes, cancer health, and children’s health. Among the recipients are organizations such as the Voz y Alma de Mujer Foundation, the Dominican Down Syndrome Association, and the SOS Children’s Villages Dominican Republic. The funds will support a wide range of initiatives, from educational workshops and healthcare services to infrastructure improvements and job training programs.

These contributions reflect President Abinader’s ongoing commitment to social development and improving the quality of life for Dominican citizens, particularly those in need. Each donation highlights the importance of collective efforts to create a more equitable and supportive society.

Dominican Association of Tourism Press welcomes 2025 with joyful celebration

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Association of Tourism Press (Adompretur) kicked off the new year with a vibrant celebration, themed around the beloved Dominican baseball season. The event, held under the slogan “In Adompretur, We Are One Team!”, aimed to strengthen bonds of friendship among its members while reaffirming their commitment to supporting the country’s tourism sector.

The members of Adompretur arrived dressed in jerseys representing the country’s six major baseball teams: Tigres del Licey, Águilas Cibaeñas, Leones del Escogido, Toros del Este, Gigantes del Cibao, and Estrellas Orientales. The festive atmosphere highlighted the nation’s passion for baseball, especially during the winter league season.

Mayra De Peña, Adompretur’s Director of Finance, welcomed attendees and led a moment of reflection. “We gather as a family with a shared mission to support the growth of the Dominican tourism sector through journalism,” she said.

Yenny Polanco Lovera, president of Adompretur, addressed the crowd with optimism for the year ahead. “As is our tradition during this time of year, we come together to celebrate the arrival of a new year. With our efforts and God’s favor, 2025 will undoubtedly bring great personal and professional achievements,” Polanco Lovera stated.

She also emphasized the significance of celebrating with a sports-themed event. “We chose this theme to reflect the camaraderie and spirit of unity that defines us as Dominicans, especially during baseball season,” she said.

Polanco Lovera further highlighted the importance of teamwork within the organization. “This gathering symbolizes the unity and collaborative spirit that has characterized Adompretur since its inception. It’s an excellent opportunity to strengthen our bonds and remind everyone that ‘In Adompretur, We Are One Team!’” she added.

During the event, Polanco Lovera was surprised with a plaque of recognition from the board members, honoring her leadership over the past four years. The inscription read: “For your leadership, perseverance, and tireless efforts that have been instrumental in establishing Adompretur as a benchmark for tourism journalism, executed with passion, quality, and ethical commitment. Your legacy and vision of excellence will continue to inspire current and future generations of tourism journalists in the Dominican Republic and Ibero-America.”

Moved by the gesture, Polanco Lovera expressed her gratitude. “This recognition is truly touching, and I deeply appreciate it. My four-year tenure as president of Adompretur has been a collective effort, thanks to a dedicated team of men and women who tirelessly promote the Dominican Republic through their journalism,” she said.

She extended special thanks to past presidents Manuel Quiterio Cedeño, Luis Ernesto Simó, Elsa Peña Nadal, Dania Goris, Osvaldo Soriano, Luis José Chávez, and José María Reyes for their unwavering support. Additionally, she acknowledged Carlos Andrés Peguero, Deputy Minister of Tourism, for his consistent backing of Adompretur’s mission. “I also thank my family, especially my daughter Ángel Marie, and all of you who inspire me to be a better person every day,” she concluded.

The celebration continued with music by the San Judas Tadeo Orchestra of the National Police, who got everyone on their feet dancing to the rhythm of merengue, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner, took fun photos in a baseball-themed photo booth, and participated in raffles to win weekend getaways, food baskets, beauty products, vouchers, and cash prizes.

The event was made possible thanks to the support and sponsorship of the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), the Chamber of Deputies, Comedores Económicos, Club Paraíso, Lopesan Costa Bávaro, Millennium Resort Cabarete, VH Gran Ventana Beach Resort, Hotel Catalonia Santo Domingo, Iberostar Selection Bávaro, Asociación de Hoteles del Este (Asoleste), Villa Bayacanes, Lifestyle Holidays Vacation Resort, Dreams Dominicus (Hyatt Inclusive Collection), the San Judas Tadeo Orchestra, Bepensa Dominicana, Creaciones Acrílicas, Tripulantes VIP, Star Products, Grupo Sarma, Cortés Hermanos, Helados Bon and Baldom Dominicana.

San Pedro de Macorís declared an ecotourism province

San Pedro de Macorís.- The Senate has passed a bill declaring San Pedro de Macorís an ecotourism province to promote sustainable conservation of natural resources and foster cultural and economic development. The legislation includes the creation of the Ecotourism Development Council, which will oversee tourism promotion and regulate ecotourism activities. The council will include representatives from the Ministries of Tourism, Culture, and Environment, as well as local leaders and ecological organizations.

The law also establishes the Provincial Fund for Ecotourism Development, allocating 50 million pesos annually from the Ministry of Tourism’s budget. This fund aims to support micro-entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs through loans and training programs to enhance ecotourism in the region.

San Pedro de Macorís is recognized for its rich natural and cultural offerings, including beaches, rivers, caves, and landmarks like the Mallén Lagoon and the Cave of Wonders. The bill highlights the province’s historical significance as a pioneer in Dominican tourism and its vibrant cultural traditions, such as the Guloyas and cocola culture. Proposed by Deputy Carlixta Carolina Paula de la Cruz, the bill was approved on November 19, 2024, and now awaits President Luis Abinader’s signature to become law.

Puerto Plata forges unprecedented alliance to unleash tourism’s full potential

Puerto Plata, DR.- In a groundbreaking move that promises to reshape the economic landscape of the region, the municipalities of Puerto Plata have united to form an unprecedented alliance. This strategic partnership, formalized during the city’s annual Tourism Day celebration, aims to harness the full potential of tourism and distribute its benefits more equitably across the province.

Led by the visionary Mayor Roquelito García of San Felipe de Puerto Plata, in collaboration with the dynamic leadership of Leonardo Medrano, Director of Tourism for the municipality, this collaborative effort seeks to transform Puerto Plata from a collection of disparate destinations into a unified front, showcasing the province’s diverse attractions and maximizing its economic impact. By pooling their resources and expertise, the municipalities aim to attract more tourists, extend the tourism season, and generate significant economic growth.

A cornerstone of this agreement is the creation of a comprehensive tourism inventory that will identify untapped opportunities and highlight the unique offerings of each municipality. Under the guidance of Mr. Medrano, this initiative will play a crucial role in developing a deeper understanding of the province’s tourism assets and identifying areas for improvement.

Furthermore, the partnership is committed to fostering sustainable tourism practices that protect the environment and benefit local communities. Mr. Medrano, with his expertise in tourism development, will undoubtedly play a key role in implementing these initiatives and ensuring their long-term success.

During the event, special recognition was given to the Comité Provincial de Puertoplateños Residentes en Estados Unidos y Canadá (COPROPUSA) for their tireless efforts in promoting the province and its community. Additionally, Mayor Ulises Rodríguez of Santiago de los Caballeros was honored for his distinguished career and unwavering commitment to the region’s tourism development. These recognitions underscore the importance of collaboration and cooperation in driving tourism growth.

By working together, the municipalities of Puerto Plata, guided by the vision of Mayor García and the expertise of Mr. Medrano, are demonstrating a commitment to the long-term prosperity of the region. This historic agreement has the potential to transform Puerto Plata into a world-class destination, while also creating a more sustainable and inclusive tourism industry.

As Puerto Plata embarks on this exciting new chapter, the future of tourism in the region appears brighter than ever. With a united front, a shared vision, and a commitment to innovation, the province is poised to solidify its position as a leading destination in the Caribbean and beyond.

Samaná implements measures for Humpback Whale season tourism

Samaná.- The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) has announced the arrival of the Humpback Whale sighting season in Samaná, offering an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. From mid-January to the end of March, Samaná Bay becomes a prime location for observing these majestic creatures.

Tourism Minister David Collado highlighted that this year, local authorities and tour operators are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of both the whales and visitors, promoting responsible and sustainable tourism practices. Sightings will be conducted in small groups with expert guides, minimizing the impact on the whales’ natural habitat.

Tourists will not only witness the beauty of nature but also learn about the whales’ remarkable migration from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm shores of the Dominican Republic, where they come to reproduce and give birth. The season is expected to attract thousands of visitors, providing a boost to the local economy while fostering marine life conservation awareness.

Dominican exports surpass US$12,000 million in 2024

Santo Domingo.- Dominican exports reached a historic record of US$12,925 million in 2024, marking an 8.3% increase from the previous year, according to the Center for Export and Investment of the Dominican Republic (ProDominicana). This growth highlights significant export gains in countries like the United States, India, and Canada.

Exports under the national regime totaled US$3,996,9 million, a rise of 11.3%, while free trade zones reached a record US$8.607,1 million, increasing by 6.9%. The report underscores the vital role of free trade zones in job creation and the country’s sustainable development and economic competitiveness.

ProDominicana Executive Director Biviana Riveiro emphasized that this sustained growth reaffirms foreign trade’s essential role in driving the Dominican economy, creating jobs, and boosting foreign currency income. The success of export promotion policies and the resilience of the national sector position the Dominican Republic as a competitive and dynamic player in the global market.

Dominican Republic leads Caribbean in scientific innovation with 25 patents

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has emerged as a leader in the Caribbean and Latin America in scientific research and patent registration, according to Genaro Rodríguez Martínez, Vice Minister of Science and Technology at the Ministry of Higher Education (Mescyt). With 25 patents acquired, up from 19 in previous years, and over 6,400 scientific publications, the country is showcasing significant progress in innovation and inter-institutional collaboration. This growth is attributed to the robust support from President Luis Abinader and the leadership of Minister Franklin García Fermín, who have prioritized the development of higher education and research systems.

The advancements include the allocation of RD$457 million to 70 research projects across 20 higher education institutions through the National Fund for Innovation and Scientific Development (Fondocyt). Key achievements include groundbreaking projects such as an anti-cancer molecule, biogas production using Ozama River water, and a novel treatment for Helicobacter Pylori. Additionally, over 236 ongoing projects are supported by increased research funding, which rose from RD$220 million in 2020 to RD$338 million in 2024.

Mescyt has also organized impactful academic events, including the Dominican Week of Science and Technology, the 19th International Congress on Scientific Research, and the IX Ceicyt 2024 Student Congress. These initiatives attracted thousands of participants and highlighted the contributions of students and researchers. The Second Dominican University Innovation Fair, held in 2024, showcased collaborations between universities, businesses, and entrepreneurs, further solidifying the country’s innovation ecosystem.

Puerto Plata vendors optimistic about 2025 tourism boost

Puerto Plata, DR.- Eddy Santos Sánchez, president of the Association of Tourist Vendors of La Puntilla in Puerto Plata, expressed optimism for 2025, citing increased sales driven by the steady arrival of cruise ships and improved weather conditions. He noted that the consistent docking of three to four ships daily has significantly boosted business for vendors along the northern coast.

“We are thrilled that cruise ships keep arriving and that reduced rainfall allows us to maintain strong sales. This year has been excellent for Puerto Plata and the surrounding areas,” said Santos Sánchez.

Meanwhile, vendors from nearby areas like Imbert and Luperón urged the government to create more jobs and invest in the western part of the province, which they say lacks sufficient economic support. They also expressed gratitude to tourism authorities and the Puerto Plata mayor’s office for their assistance, emphasizing the importance of collaboration to sustain cleanliness and foster regional economic growth.

Trump voices support for María Corina Machado and Edmundo González

United States.- U.S. President-elect Donald Trump denounced the kidnapping of Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado through his Truth Social account, condemning the Maduro regime’s repression and highlighting Machado’s role in representing the will of the Venezuelan people.

“Venezuelan democracy activist María Corina Machado and President-elect González are peacefully voicing the aspirations of the Venezuelan people, with hundreds of thousands protesting against the regime,” Trump stated. He reaffirmed U.S. support for a free Venezuela and praised the Venezuelan-American community’s backing of his stance on the issue.

Machado was reportedly kidnapped on Thursday by individuals linked to Nicolás Maduro’s regime, prompting widespread international condemnation. World leaders, including presidents, former presidents, and human rights advocates, demanded her immediate release. Shortly after the incident, reports from Caracas confirmed Machado’s release, sparking relief among supporters and global observers.

Reef Jet to launch excursions and resume Punta Cana-Santiago flights

Santo Domingo.- Reef Jet has announced the start of its operations for the 2025 winter season, featuring a range of flights and excursions aimed at enhancing Caribbean connectivity and offering unforgettable experiences.

Among the highlights, the airline will introduce weekly excursions to Bahía de las Águilas in Pedernales, with travelers from Punta Cana able to explore the destination every Thursday. Additionally, Reef Jet invites guests to experience whale watching from January 16 to March 31, offering both full-day excursions on Wednesdays and half-day options on Fridays.

To further strengthen national connectivity, Reef Jet will resume its Punta Cana-Santiago route with weekly flights on Fridays and Sundays, reducing travel time to just 50 minutes. Geraint María Barrot, COO of Reef Jet, emphasized the airline’s commitment to high-quality service, sustainability, and promoting domestic tourism, aiming to contribute to the growth of the national tourism sector.

Argentina and Dominican Republic sign open skies agreement

Argentina.- The governments of Argentina and the Dominican Republic have signed a bilateral open skies agreement, marking a significant step toward enhancing air connectivity between the two nations. With this deal, Argentina now has open skies agreements with 11 countries, including Brazil, Chile, and Canada. This policy transition eliminates restrictions on flight frequencies, enabling airlines to adjust schedules based on market demand and seasonal trends, thereby fostering competitiveness and improving passenger connectivity.

Under the agreement, airlines can expand their transport networks across the continent, unrestricted by the previous cap of 14 weekly flights. The policy also removes limits on regular cargo flights, allowing them to operate under the “seventh freedom of the air,” which permits flights that neither begin nor end in the airline’s home country. The agreement was formalized by Argentina’s Secretary of Transportation, Franco Mogetta, and Héctor Porcella Dumas, President of the Dominican Republic’s Civil Aviation Board.

The open skies policy is already generating results. Previously limited to the Ezeiza-Punta Cana route, new routes like Córdoba-Punta Cana and Ezeiza-Punta Cana (operated by Arajet) have commenced, with plans for Tucumán-Punta Cana and Rosario-Punta Cana routes in 2025. Airlines such as Sky, Arajet, and Jetsmart are expected to expand international operations. This deregulation is anticipated to boost tourism, enhance investment opportunities, and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.

La Romana welcomes two weekly SkyUp Airlines flights from Poland

La Romana.- La Romana International Airport celebrated the arrival of its first weekly SkyUp Airlines flight from Warsaw, marking a significant step in enhancing the airport’s role as a key tourism hub for the eastern Dominican Republic and the Caribbean. The inaugural flight, aboard a Boeing 777-300R, carried 333 passengers and was nearly at full capacity, reflecting strong demand for this new route. A second weekly flight will connect La Romana to Katowice, further strengthening tourism ties between Eastern Europe and the Dominican Republic.

Luis Emilio Rodriguez, director of La Romana Airport, highlighted the strategic partnership with leading tour operators Anex Tour and Join Up, emphasizing that these flights will not only attract European visitors but also provide a boost to the local economy by promoting tourism and creating new opportunities in the sector.

La Romana International Airport, known for its excellent infrastructure and proximity to popular destinations like Casa de Campo, Altos de Chavón, and Bávaro, continues to grow as an international gateway. The warm welcome for passengers on the inaugural flight showcased Dominican hospitality, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors. The recent addition of SkyUp Airlines, along with the resumption of American Airlines’ daily Miami-La Romana flight, underscores the region’s potential to drive economic growth and business opportunities.

Cibao International Airport exceeds 180,000 passengers in December

Santiago de los Caballeros, DR.- Cibao International Airport closed December with over 180,000 passengers, receiving an average of 52 flights daily, primarily from the United States, including New York, Newark, and Miami, along with tourists from Madrid and several Panamanian cities. The airport’s total passenger count for the year exceeded 2.2 million.

To accommodate future growth, the airport is progressing with plans to expand its terminal by 2025, aiming for completion by 2026. This US$300 million project includes the expansion of the aircraft parking platform, a 280-meter runway extension, and enhanced access and parking facilities. The expansion is expected to increase the airport’s capacity to 2.6 million annual passengers.

Tourism, the great protagonist of the Dominican Republic’s economic growth in 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican tourism sector is consolidating itself as the country’s main economic engine, managing to close 2024 with record visitor arrivals, an expansion of its hotel plant, and a considerable improvement in average tourist spending.

For economist Jaime Aristy Escuder, the growth exhibited by the DR economy in the just-ended year was leveraged mainly by the contributions of the tourism sector, an industry that remains unstoppable.

“The activities of the tourism sector together with commerce, construction and local manufacturing contributed tangibly to the increase in Dominican GDP in 2024,” he said.

He indicated that the growth mentioned above is in line with the estimates of the Central Bank, which indicate that the economy would register the highest growth rate in the entire region last year.

He said that the Dominican economy will remain at a good pace in the future. Proof of this is the current international environment’s favor for the country, as well as the fact that the United States, the nation’s main trading partner, projects a growth of 2.7% for this year, despite the fact that the interest rates of the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Notes are High.

President Abinader rejoices with the boost of cruise ships in Cabo Rojo

Pedernales, DR. – President Luis Abinader highlighted the boost of cruise tourism in the port of Cabo Rojo, Pedernales, with the arrival of the Holland America Line Rotterdam cruise ship this week. The ship had 2,593 visitors and 976 crew members on board.

“Pedernales enthusiastically welcomes the Holland America Line Rotterdam ship. I am happy to start the year seeing how the dream of tourism development in the south becomes a reality that benefits the entire region and the country. We continue to work for a future full of opportunities for Pedernales and the entire Dominican Republic,” the president posted on his social networks.

The cruise ship becomes the sixth to call at the port of Cabo Rojo, whose terminal is scheduled to make some 25 more stopovers by Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Lines, MSC, and Costa Cruises in 2025.

European tourist arrivals to the Dominican Republic increase: Spain and Germany lead the way

Tourism activity registers significant growth in the country, specifically from long-distance markets such as Spain, Germany, and Italy. This is in addition to the leadership maintained by tourist-issuing countries such as the United States and Canada.

Statistics from the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), on its Situr platform, show that in November of this year, 2024, the arrivals of foreigners and Dominicans residing abroad were steadily increasing.

It was recorded that 13,488 Germans arrived in the DR by air, 9,518 from Poland, and 2,223 Swiss, among others. In addition, 176,006 Americans, 104,414 Dominicans and 93,454 Canadians.

Passengers arrived in the country on 4,951 regular flights and 331 charter flights, according to Listin Diario.

The recovery and growth of long-distance destinations such as the European one have much to do with the sustainable management of Mitur, which presents the environment and safety of the DR for the visitor.

Puerto Plata to welcome 81 cruise ships at the start of 2025

Puerto Plata.- Puerto Plata, known as “The Bride of the Atlantic,” is set to kick off 2025 with a tourism boom, welcoming 81 cruise ships to its main ports, Amber Cove and Taíno Bay. In January alone, Amber Cove will host 27 vessels, while Taíno Bay will receive 54, offering thousands of visitors the chance to explore the province’s natural beauty and cultural charm.

Carlos Atahualpa Paulino, regional director of the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the economic significance of this influx, noting its critical role in strengthening Puerto Plata’s economy and solidifying its status as a tourism hub. Since its opening in 2015, Amber Cove has been pivotal for cruise tourism in northern Dominican Republic, a success further bolstered by Taíno Bay’s inauguration in 2021.

In 2024, the Dominican Republic welcomed over 11 million visitors, contributing US$26,000 million to the GDP and creating nearly 949,000 jobs. With Puerto Plata’s continued growth and commitment to sustainable tourism, the region remains a key player in the nation’s economic and tourism landscape.