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.

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.