UNWTO: Tourism on track for full recovery

New York.- International tourism has continued to recover from the worst crisis in its history as arrival numbers reached 84% of pre-pandemic levels between January and July 2023, according to the latest data from UNWTO. The Middle East, Europe and Africa lead the global sector’s rebound.

Tourism demand continues to show remarkable resilience and sustained recovery, even in the face of economic and geopolitical challenges. The new issue of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer tracks the sector’s recovery over the course of 2023 up to the end of July.

The UNWTO Barometer shows that by the end of July, international tourist arrivals reached 84% of pre-pandemic levels; 700 million tourists traveled internationally between January and July 2023, 43% more than in the same months of 2022; and July was the busiest month with 145 million international travelers recorded, about 20% of the seven-month total.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “UNWTO data once again shows how tourism is recovering strongly in every part of the world. But as our sector recovers, it also needs to adapt. The extreme weather events we have witnessed over recent months as well as the critical challenges of managing increasing tourism flows underline the need to build a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient sector and ensure recovery goes hand-in-hand with rethinking of our sector.”

Results by region

The Middle East reported the best results in January-July 2023, with arrivals 20% above pre-pandemic levels. The region continues to be the only to exceed 2019 levels so far.

Europe, the world’s largest destination region, reached 91% of pre-pandemic levels, supported by robust intra-regional demand and travel from the United States.

Africa recovered 92% of pre-crisis visitors this seven-month period and the Americas 87%, according to available data.

In Asia and the Pacific, recovery accelerated to 61% of pre-pandemic arrival levels after the opening of many destinations and source markets at the end of 2022 and earlier this year.

The UNWTO World Tourism Barometer contains results by region, sub-region and country, including best-performing destinations in terms of international arrivals and  receipts over the first seven months of the year.

Year-to-date change by region

These results show international tourism remains well on track to reach 80% to 95% of pre-pandemic levels in 2023. Prospects for September-December 2023 point to continued recovery, according to the latest UNWTO Confidence Index, though at a more moderate pace following the peak travel season of June-August. These results will be driven by the still pent-up demand and increased air connectivity particularly in Asia and the Pacific where recovery is still subdued.

The reopening of China and other Asian markets and destinations is expected to continue boosting travel both within the region and to other parts of the world.

The challenging economic environment continues to be a critical factor in the effective recovery of international tourism in 2023, according to UNWTO’s Panel of Experts.

Persisting inflation and rising oil prices have translated into higher transport and accommodations costs. This could weigh on spending patterns over the remainder of the year, with tourists increasingly seeking value for money, traveling closer to home and making shorter trips.

UNDP: Dominican Republic advances 60% of Agenda 2030, but needs acceleration

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has published research on the progress made by countries toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with seven years remaining to meet the 2030 Agenda. According to the study, the Dominican Republic has reported a 62% advance in achieving the SDGs and has even recovered its pre-pandemic growth trend.

The report notes that the Dominican Republic’s economy is on a path of recovery in 2023 and is projected to accelerate in 2024-2025. This growth rate is 60% higher, on average, than the global figure and aligns with the country’s pre-pandemic growth trajectory. UNDP predicts that this economic expansion will have a moderate positive impact on poverty reduction, with general monetary poverty decreasing to 27.7% in 2022, and extreme monetary poverty at 3.8%.

The study also indicates that, under the current trend, the country could achieve the goal of “zero poverty” by 2050. However, by incorporating SDG accelerators in development interventions, the number of people living in poverty could be reduced 10 years earlier.

To accelerate the execution of the 2030 Agenda, UNDP recommends a series of actions, acknowledging that the country’s credit rating in the “speculative non-investment grade” category could slow down the growth achieved. It suggests exploring innovative financing alternatives and mechanisms to better redistribute resources and reduce negative impacts on the poorest households.

The UNDP lists possible investment options, including climate financing, mixed and public-private financing, enhancing the business environment and investment aligned with the SDGs, access to financial markets and insurance, remittances, and philanthropy.

While highlighting progress in the Dominican Republic, such as the promulgation of the Territorial Planning Law, the Ten-Year Health Plan, and inclusive industrialization, the report also notes ongoing challenges related to inequality, informality, and the professionalization of the workforce.

The Sustainable Development Goals are a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and improve the lives of people worldwide. They encompass various objectives, including ending poverty, ensuring clean water and sanitation, addressing climate action, and promoting peace and justice.

United States Secretary of State affirms the Dominican Republic is improving its levels of transparency and fight against corruption

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has acknowledged the Dominican Republic’s dedicated efforts to enhance transparency and combat corruption, ultimately bolstering the credibility of its institutions among the general population.

During the “Democracy Delivers” event, Blinken highlighted the investments made through USAID, which have contributed to more effective efforts against common challenges such as corruption in the past year. He emphasized that greater transparency leads to increased citizen confidence in their government.

Blinken stated, “We are seeking new ways to deliver progress to our people in areas that truly matter and positively impact their lives. We are working to strengthen public institutions and respond more effectively to citizens’ needs.”

The “Democracy Delivers” initiative represents a collaborative effort among various countries to continue strengthening democracy and promoting development and well-being for their populations. Armenia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Malawi, Maldives, Moldova, Nepal, and Tanzania are participating in this initiative.

President Abinader also addressed the event, reiterating the importance of actively and persistently combating corruption and impunity, strengthening institutions, and enhancing the quality of public spending to deliver better services to the population. He emphasized that true democracy and development are achieved through these measures.

The event took place at the Ford Foundation headquarters as part of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. It underscores the commitment of both the Dominican Republic and the United States to promote transparency, strengthen institutions, and advance democracy.

Polish investors will build Cofresi Hills hotel in Puerto Plata

Puerto Plata.- The Polish company Factory Centrum SP, the primary investor and manager, has reported rapid progress in the construction of the “Cofresi Hills Residence” hotel project, a luxury and premium-level hotel complex in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.

Ricardo Moran, the director of Cofresi Hills Residence, highlighted the reasons behind the decision of Polish investors to build hotels in the Dominican Republic. He mentioned that the government’s incentives aimed at encouraging foreign investment and driving economic growth played a significant role in their decision-making process.

Moran emphasized Puerto Plata’s appeal as an emerging market, citing various factors that make the region attractive. He noted, “The prosperous economy of the DR, and that the attractiveness of Puerto Plata is not limited only to tourists; its allure extends to apartment buyers, creating a competitive advantage that Cofresi Hills Residence is poised to capitalize on.”

In addition, he pointed out that the growth in the tourism sector, driven by Puerto Plata’s increasing appeal as a tourist destination, was a key factor influencing their decision to build Cofresi Hills Residence. The property currently features 14 premium apartments serving as models to showcase the project’s concept.

The construction of the project will take place in three phases, with a total of 100 apartments offering various accommodation options to cater to guests’ preferences. The first phase is already under construction, with the second phase set to begin in 2024 and the third phase in 2025. The new buildings are designed to meet luxury standards.

Cofresi Hills Residence aims to provide a haven of tranquility and calm, offering accommodation tailored to guests’ preferences with meticulous attention to detail. It is strategically located in Puerto Plata, adjacent to the Ocean World Adventure Park and Marina, making it an ideal destination for vacation rentals.

The project reflects a commitment to growth and luxury in the region, positioning Cofresi Hills Residence as a premier vacation rental property in Puerto Plata.

Arajet transports more than 350 thousand passengers in its first year of operations

Arajet, the airline known for connecting the Dominican Republic to North, Central, and South America with its fleet of Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, celebrated its first anniversary of operations. During this inaugural year, Arajet transported over 350,000 passengers.

Victor Pacheco Méndez, CEO & Founder of Arajet, expressed gratitude to the passengers who put their trust in the airline, as well as the over half a million people who have purchased air tickets with Arajet. He emphasized that Arajet’s mission is to democratize air travel, making it accessible at the lowest possible prices.

In just one year, Arajet has expanded its services to encompass 22 destinations across 15 countries, effectively establishing Santo Domingo as a new hub in the Caribbean connecting to the continent.

Pacheco Méndez highlighted the airline’s positive impact on the job market, with more than 350 direct employees and over 1,000 indirect employees. Arajet has also invested in training programs for Dominican pilots and cabin crew, nurturing specialized talent in the aviation sector.

The CEO acknowledged the crucial support from investors like Bain Capital and Griffin Capital Management, as well as their partnership with Boeing Company, which has played a pivotal role in the airline’s success and the revival of Dominican aviation.

Pacheco Méndez also praised the legal support provided by the Dominican government, led by President Luis Abinader and Minister of Tourism David Collado. He shared their ambitious goal of becoming the Dominican airline that transports 5% to 10% of the tourists coming to the country by 2024.

The contributions of various aviation authorities and government agencies were recognized, underscoring their collective efforts to make affordable air travel accessible to Dominicans. Álvaro de Oleo, Senior Marketing and Electronic Commerce Consultant at Arajet, noted that the airline has positively impacted the tourism sector, with the immigration department projecting that one million Dominicans will have flown for the first time by the end of 2023. Arajet’s mission to make flying accessible to everyone aligns with this goal, ensuring that countless Dominicans have the opportunity to experience air travel.

Abinader will sign an agreement to protect the oceans promoted by the UN

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader is set to sign the Agreement on the Biodiversity of Areas Outside National Jurisdiction, an initiative promoted by the United Nations (UN). This agreement aims to promote equity in the benefits derived from marine genetic resources, establish sustainable management mechanisms, and improve the management of coastal waters with the potential for pollution from marine sources.

The signing ceremony is scheduled to take place on Wednesday afternoon, with President Abinader being accompanied by Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez and the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources (MMARN), Miguel Ceara Hatton.

Minister Ceara Hatton emphasized the significance of the Dominican Republic’s commitment to the UN and the international community in protecting ocean resources beyond national borders. He also highlighted the global challenges facing oceans, such as the issue of sargassum, which is linked to excess nutrients in the seas.

In addition to Minister Ceara Hatton, Milagros De Camps, Vice Minister of Climate Change at MMARN, is participating in the 78th period of sessions of the United Nations General Assembly, attending various bilateral commitments on the official agenda. The UN is currently debating the need for countries to find mechanisms to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases over the next three decades to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels.

Corales Puntacana Championship is nominated for “Best Marketing Initiative” on the PGA Tour

Punta Cana.- The Corales Puntacana Championship has received a prestigious nomination in the ‘Best Marketing Initiative’ category at the 2022-2023 PGA TOUR Tournament Awards. This recognition celebrates the innovative strategies employed by PGA TOUR tournaments and underscores their profound impact on local communities.

Manuel Sajour, the Executive Director of Marketing for Grupo Puntacana, expressed pride in the nomination, saying, “PGA TOUR Tournament Awards is an initiative that recognizes the outstanding work of the tournaments on the calendar. Being nominated as the tournament with the best marketing initiatives is a source of pride for the entire team that works tirelessly to make this country-branding event the success it has been.”

He also emphasized the significance of this achievement in the context of the post-pandemic era, stating, “We are very happy with the nomination among all the PGA TOUR events. It is not the first time we have been nominated, nor would it be the first time we win, but it is a great achievement in these post-pandemic times. Corales Puntacana Championship is a country-brand event with which the Dominican Republic puts itself before the eyes of the world with golf tourism.”

In addition to the Corales Puntacana Championship, other noteworthy nominees in the ‘Best Marketing Initiative’ category include the Barracuda Championship, Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by Mastercard, Wells Fargo Championship, RBC Canadian Open, and Rocket Mortgage Classic.

Recently, the PGA TOUR and Puntacana Resort & Club unveiled the dates for the upcoming Corales Puntacana Championship, scheduled to take place from April 15 to April 21, 2024, at the Corales Golf Course. This marks the third edition of a contract renewal extending through 2025.

The Corales Puntacana Championship, offering 300 FedExCup points, will continue its tradition of live broadcast coverage on Golf Channel. The tournament boasts a remarkable reach of 4.8 billion impressions in digital and print media, both nationally and internationally across 153 countries, with a viewership of 3.4 million in the United States.

Reflecting on past champions, Matt Wallace claimed victory in the 2023 tournament, while Joel Dahmen secured his first PGA TOUR victory at the 2022 Corales Puntacana Championship. Other notable champions in the tournament’s history include Hudson Swafford (2020), Graeme McDowell (2019), and Brice Garnett (2018).

Before its inclusion in the PGA TOUR, the tournament had a two-year stint on the Korn Ferry Tour schedule, with Dominic Bozzelli emerging victorious in 2016 and Nate Lashley in 2017.

The PGA Tour, headquartered in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, stands as the premier North American men’s professional golf tour, featuring over 175 tournaments across six international tours. PGA Tour members represent top-tier players from 29 countries and territories outside the United States, totaling 96 international members.

Abinader left for New York to discuss the Haiti crisis at the UN General Assembly

President Luis Abinader has traveled to New Jersey, from where he will depart for New York to participate in the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations (UN). During this assembly, he will deliver a speech addressing the crisis in Haiti. Abinader emphasized the importance of raising awareness in the international community about the situation in Haiti and noted that the definitive solution lies in the hands of the international community.

The Dominican president is scheduled to return to the country on Friday after fulfilling various commitments, including bilateral meetings with other leaders and engagements with international, financial, and diplomatic organizations.

In his speech, Abinader reiterated that there is no Dominican solution to the Haitian problem and emphasized that the closure of the border with Haiti was ordered due to a dispute over the construction of an irrigation canal on the Masacre River by Haitians. He reassured that the current situation on the border is under control and does not pose a threat to the daily activities of the Dominican population.

Abinader traveled on a private flight, accompanied by his assistants and the head of the Presidential Security Corps (CUSEP).

Experts from the tourism and real estate sector discuss new challenges and opportunities

Punta Cana.- The main issues currently concerning the tourism industry, with a focus on the comparison between the traditional hotel model and the emerging vacation rental industry through digital platforms, were examined in this town by a group of local and international experts.

The professional group gathered at the First “Tourism and Real Estate GC Roundtable” in the Dominican Republic, comprised legal directors of the most important brands in the sector, executive directors of relevant associations, and UNWTO consultants.

The event, held by Quiroz Advisors-QA Legal, a prominent law firm specializing in the country’s tourism and real estate sector, in association with The Legal 500, a renowned London publisher in the international legal industry, conducts these roundtable discussions in multiple countries.

Topics addressed included the evolution of the hotel and vacation rental industry, its challenges and opportunities, the legal and regulatory framework for hotels and vacation rentals, competition and challenges. Expectations and concerns regarding the Draft Regulation of the Territorial Planning Law, currently in the drafting phase, were also discussed.

Additionally, they explored subjects related to special tax regimes, consumer protection and security, data protection, cybersecurity, the impact of technology and innovation, sustainability aspects, solid waste management, greenhouse gas emissions, and the sargassum phenomenon as a significant challenge for tourism.

The roundtable discussion was moderated by José A. Quiroz, managing partner of QA Legal, and included the participation of legal directors from companies such as Grupo Punta Cana, Central Romana (Casa de Campo), Cap Cana, Grupo Piñero, Meliá Hotels International, Coral Hospitality Corporation, Hard Rock Hotels & Casino, Hotel Embajador – Royal Hideaway, Iberostar Group, and Playa Grande.

The event had the special participation of Dr. Julio Facal, consultant to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and International Tourism Of Counsel for QA Legal, as well as the executive and legal directors of the most relevant associations in these sectors, including Andrés Marranzini and Alba Russo, executive vice president and Legal Director, respectively, of ASONAHORES.

Similarly, Jorge Subero, president of the Dominican Association of Real Estate Tourism Companies (ADETI); Sarah Peña David, executive director of the Dominican Restaurant Association (ADERES), and Annerys Meléndez, president of the Association of Housing Builders and Developers (ACOPROVI) participated.

“This event undoubtedly marks a milestone for the tourism and real estate sector of the Dominican Republic,” Quiroz stressed. The expert emphasized the need to reach consensus and join forces to promote the necessary actions, accompany the competent authorities, unions, and business community in matters of regulation, and generate proposals for solutions to the current challenges of the tourism and real estate industry. This seeks to preserve and sustainably grow this crucial sector of the country’s economy, which is Dominican Tourism.

Dominican Republic: the first Caribbean country to be a partner of the US Global Entry program

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has entered into a partnership with the United States Global Entry program, making it the 16th country worldwide, the 6th in Latin America, and the first in the Caribbean to be a part of this initiative. This achievement reflects the close relationship between the two nations, according to Jonathan Mardo, the attaché of the Customs and Border Protection Office (CBP) at the United States Embassy in the Dominican Republic.

Starting from August 14, 2023, Dominican citizens with US visas can apply online for entry into the Global Entry program. Applicants will need to complete an online application through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) System and, if approved following background checks and an in-person interview, they can obtain Global Entry privileges in about three to six months.

Global Entry offers accepted travelers the convenience of saving time and bypassing immigration lines at over 75 airports in the United States by using automated kiosks. Additionally, it provides access to the TSA PreCheck®️ program, which streamlines security procedures at US airports, including not having to remove shoes, jackets, belts, or laptops from carry-on luggage.

Applicants need to meet specific requirements, including providing their residential and employment history for the past five years and valid ID, passport, driver’s license, and visa numbers with a validity period of at least five years. The program comes at a cost of US$100 for a five-year membership.

Abinader to address Haiti impasse at UN assembly

The disagreement with Haiti over the construction of a canal on the Masacre River, which has led to the indefinite closure of the border, will be presented by President Luis Abinader at the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations (UN), to be held between September 19 and 23 in New York, United States.

In each trip to the UN, as in other conventions, the president has requested the intervention of an international force to control the violence implemented by criminal gangs in the neighboring nation, a problem that threatens the Dominican Republic, according to the government.

However, given the current situation, the president will make a turn in his speech and expose the impasse with the canal on the Masacre River. The private sector allegedly finances the work. The Dominican government has already identified and banned the entry of nine people for the project. In Cuba, in his speech at the G77+China assembly, Abinader called the group “anarchists” who are trying to provoke chaos.

The president’s agenda for this Saturday was focused on the provinces of Santiago and Duarte with two proselytizing activities, but they were suspended due to the border situation.

Air Catering reaffirms service commitment on flights from Puerto Plata and Samaná

With a second flight kitchen, operating at the Gregorio Luperón International Airport in Puerto Plata, which supplies and dispatches food on board for the various airlines arriving at the destinations, as well as at the El Catey-Presidente Juan Bosch International Airport in Samaná, the air catering company JJ Roca reaffirmed its commitment to the tourism and economic sector of the country.

“Since 1995, we have been contributing directly to the city of Puerto Plata and the local producers, from where we supply ourselves with all the vegetables, dairy products, sausages, and others, ” explained José Dorville, JJ Roca Catering operations manager.

“In both destinations the company generates for the northern region of the country more than 24 direct jobs and 83 indirect jobs, being a source of foreign exchange for the economy of this area,” he added, according to a press release.

The development of the production of flight kitchens and the in-flight food prepared by the corporation’s culinary professionals has been an essential contribution to the tourism sector, making the Dominican flavor known in the dishes served to tourists who visit us on commercial flights arriving through these airports, as well as contributing to the generation of jobs, foreign exchange and support for local production.

Dorville pointed out that “Puerto Plata is a strong destination, we believe in it and we bet on it, we are willing to continue working for it, we live here, and we will keep doing everything possible to preserve this destination and continue receiving tourists through the various airlines that visit us, providing the best food on board.”

Dominican government completes global international bond repurchase operation

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Government, under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance, has successfully completed a comprehensive repurchase operation involving an international bond indexed to Dominican pesos maturing in 2026, with a total value of 40,792.05 million pesos.

The Ministry explained that the offers received since September 5, when the initiative was presented to investors, amounted to 59.97% of the total amount in circulation for this particular instrument.

For the repurchase, the government issued bonds maturing in 2035, valued at 71,000 million pesos (equivalent to 1,252.18 million dollars) with a coupon rate of 11.25%. Remarkably, offers were received for 154,767 million pesos, which represents an impressive 2.2 times the demand for the subscribed amount.

Minister of Finance, Jochi Vicente, expressed his satisfaction with the success of this operation, highlighting that it underscores the trust investors have in the government’s proactive debt management and its commitment to ensuring risk indicators remain sustainable.

Vicente remarked, “When we go out to the capital markets, both domestically and internationally, we see the appetite of investors for our bonds, and that is a sign that we are managing public finances correctly because no one puts their money where they have no guarantees.”

The transaction was strategically conducted to take advantage of favorable market conditions. It facilitated the repurchase of the 2026 bond while allocating the rest of the resources to meet the financing needs outlined in the General State Budget for 2023.

The issuance of bonds in pesos serves to reduce the proportion of foreign currency in the debt portfolio of the non-financial public sector, decreasing it from 71.8% in January 2023 to 68.7%. This move helps mitigate exchange rate risk on fiscal accounts and simultaneously increases the average maturity period by 0.23 years, improving the Dominican State’s refinancing risk.

Furthermore, this successful operation reflects investors’ confidence in the Dominican currency and enhances its presence in the international market. Vice Minister of Public Credit, María José Martínez, emphasized that these results align with the government’s commitment to executing the medium-term debt strategy, aimed at reducing both refinancing and exchange risk, ultimately working towards achieving an Investment Grade status.

Punta Cana International Airport receives an award for the seventh consecutive year

Punta Cana.- The Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) has been awarded the “Best Airport by Size and Region” in the category of 5 to 15 million passengers per year in the Caribbean and Latin America at the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards ceremony by the Airports Council International (ACI). This marks the seventh consecutive year that the airport has received this prestigious recognition.

In addition to this award, the Punta Cana International Airport also received the new Customer Experience accreditation, which guides airports toward excellence in customer experience management across various domains.

The airport’s director of Landside Operations, Alberto Smith, accepted the award on behalf of the airport during a ceremony held in the Republic of Korea. He expressed gratitude to the more than 8,000 people working at the airport for their dedication and commitment to achieving this recognition.

The Punta Cana International Airport continuously evaluates passenger satisfaction metrics to implement improvements and create the best possible travel experience for passengers. This commitment to excellence has established the airport as one of the top 10 airports in Latin America and the most important in the insular Caribbean.

The airport recently expanded Terminal B, initially catering to airlines from North America with plans to extend connectivity routes to Latin America and Europe. It serves as a vital hub connecting 64 cities in 26 countries and transports eight million passengers annually.

The Airport Service Quality Awards program, organized by ACI, assesses passenger satisfaction and recognizes airports worldwide that offer outstanding customer experiences. The Punta Cana International Airport’s consistent excellence in this area highlights its importance in the Dominican Republic’s growing tourism industry.

Ecotourism Fair seeks to boost the economy and expand agriculture in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Science and Art Foundation, under the guidance of directors José Serulle Ramia and Jacqueline Boin, proudly introduced the Twenty-Seventh Ecotourism and Production Fair. This event is designed with the primary goal of showcasing and advancing the community of El Cercado, situated within the San Juan region of El Valle.

The overarching objective of this endeavor is to transform ecotourism and sustainable production into viable avenues for economic, social, cultural, and environmental progress within the Dominican Republic’s communities. The ultimate aim is to foster comprehensive development throughout the region.

José Serulle emphasized the potential of ecotourism as an alternative for development, one that doesn’t necessitate extensive financial investments. He elaborated on the idea that communities, in collaboration with local businesses, can pool their resources and establish eco-friendly accommodations, create pathways to visit attractions like spas and harness the natural treasures of the area.

This remarkable event is scheduled to take place from November 16 to 26 of this year under the overarching theme: “For the preservation of the Neiba mountain range and the rational management of the Macasías sub-basin-Artibonito basin! For sustainable agriculture and comprehensive development!”

Jacqueline Boin stressed that the purpose of these fairs extends beyond merely showcasing the beauty of a region; it is a platform to facilitate community development and capture the attention of relevant authorities. Among the key objectives is stimulating the local economy and ensuring its equitable distribution among the community members. Additionally, there is a commitment to expand and enhance agricultural practices in the region.

José Serulle, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving these objectives. He noted that raising awareness within the community is paramount, underlining that “divided, we will not achieve anything.” He further clarified that the fair serves as a catalyst, but their true aspiration is for people to come together, improve their living conditions, and recognize the intrinsic value of their natural and cultural resources.

Tropicalia will begin construction of its long-awaited Four Seasons in Miches

Miches.- Tropicalia, a real estate development project initiated by Cisneros Real Estate, has officially commenced the construction of the first phase of the Four Seasons in Miches, with plans to open its doors in early 2026. This development represents an investment exceeding $200 million.

The property, known as “Four Seasons Resorts and Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia,” will comprise a 95-room resort and 25 private residences, featuring three to four bedrooms, all conveniently located just steps away from the beach.

Adriana Cisneros, CEO of Cisneros, expressed her joy and pride at this significant milestone, emphasizing the close collaboration with the Miches community for over a decade in pursuit of sustainable development. She reiterated the commitment to continue working towards the community’s development and environmental preservation.

William Phelan, President of Tropicalia, highlighted the determination behind the project’s vision, which exemplifies their commitment to the region and their goal of making this ambitious project a reality. He believes it will elevate the standard of sustainable luxury tourism in the country while providing a socioeconomic and environmental boost to Miches.

Four Seasons currently manages 126 hotels and 53 residential properties across 47 countries. The introduction of Four Seasons Tropicalia, establishes a significant precedent as the first and only Four Seasons property in the Dominican Republic, reinforcing the commitment to invest in the country.

David Collado, Minister of Tourism, expressed pride in having an investment like Four Seasons Tropicalia by the Cisneros family in the Dominican Republic. He highlighted the government’s efforts to promote and revive tourism and believes this luxury hotel will diversify the tourist demographic while contributing to the sustainable development of the country’s tourism sector.

The construction is being undertaken by the French company Bouygues, a leader in sustainable construction operating in over 80 countries. The construction phase will create approximately 2,000 jobs for the local community in Miches.

Designed with a modernist tropical concept by Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld, Four Seasons Dominican Republic at Tropicalia aims to set a new standard for natural and sustainable elegance, appealing to discerning travelers worldwide. The resort will offer an array of amenities, including a gym, sports facilities, a spa, event spaces, a kids’ club, and a diverse culinary experience with numerous dining options.

Coconut water from the Dominican Republic will enter US markets for the first time

Santo Domingo.- The governments of the Dominican Republic and the United States, as well as the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, have given the green light for the export of water coconuts and avocados, respectively, in a move that has been hailed as a significant boon for the nation’s agricultural sector.

The Ministry of Agriculture made this encouraging announcement, highlighting the positive impact of President Luis Abinader’s administration on the country’s agricultural producers. Ibrahim Shaqir, the Head of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS-USDA), conveyed the approval through a communication addressed to the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Agriculture’s Plant Health Department, under the leadership of Rosa Lazala. A similar notification was sent to the government of Jamaica through the Dominican ambassador in that country, Angie Martínez.

In the communication from APHIS, it was stated: “APHIS kindly confirms that the revised import requirements came into effect immediately, as mentioned in our letter of August 22, 2023. We hope to receive the immature coconuts from the Dominican Republic without shell and water or in the shell (with at least 75% of the green outer shell removed) and with water, in accordance with APHIS import requirements currently listed on our Agricultural Commodity Import Requirements (ACIR) website.”

Minister Limber Cruz expressed his gratitude to the dedicated efforts of his plant health and ACTO (Agreement on the Application of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures) team for their diligent work in overseeing all aspects of commercial export treaties. He recognized the immense business opportunity that now lies ahead for the Dominican Republic, thanks to these approvals.

The renowned Hollywood actors who will participate in a golf event in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Prominent Hollywood actors, including Don Cheadle, known for his roles in “House of Lies” and the Ironman and Avengers movies, and David Costabile, famous for “Breaking Bad” and “Billions,” are set to participate in the Cap Cana: World of Golf Celebrity Championship.

This tournament is scheduled to take place from October 5 to 8, 2023, and will also feature actors Dean Norris, Bruce Greenwood, Kim Coates, Grant Show, Dane DeHaan, Amaury Nolasco, and Mike Mills, the bassist and founding member of the alternative rock band REM.

The event aims to bring together prominent figures from sports, music, and entertainment while raising funds for local and regional charities. It will showcase the Dominican Republic’s culture and attract international media attention, contributing to economic, community, and charitable impact in the region.

The inaugural event will raise money for academic scholarships and the construction of a new baseball field in Verón. Additionally, a live musical performance by legendary musician Elton John is planned, marking his first performance in the Dominican Republic since 2014.

Ticket prices and further details can be found on the official website of the World of Golf at www.worldofgolftour.com.

World of Golf is a championship series that features prominent personalities from various fields, including sports, music, and entertainment and aims to raise awareness and funds for charitable causes while offering a unique golfing experience.

The Dominican Republic is ranked 53rd among the “Best Countries of 2023”, according to a study

The Dominican Republic has been ranked 53rd out of 87 in the “Best Countries of 2023” ranking, a project by US News & World Report, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and a global marketing services company. This ranking evaluates 87 countries on 73 different attributes grouped into 10 subclassifications, with a focus on areas like tourism, quality of life, power, and wealth. While the Dominican Republic stands out in tourism and other categories like “being open for business” and having a “pleasant climate,” it shows lower percentages in education, entrepreneurship, and skilled labor.

At the top of the list are countries like Switzerland, Canada, Sweden, Australia, the United States, Japan, Germany, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

See the complete list here: Best Countries in the World

The ranking is based on a survey of more than 17,000 global citizens from 36 countries, including business leaders, college-educated individuals, and general citizens, and was conducted from March 17 to June 12, 2023.

Remittance flows to the Dominican Republic grow 3.9% in 2023

The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) has reported that for the first eight months of 2023, remittances received have amounted to $6,769.9 million, marking a 3.9% growth compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth aligns with the projection of exceeding $10 billion by the end of the year.

Specifically, in August, remittances reached $860.6 million, reflecting a 1.4% increase compared to August 2022. However, this figure is $28.8 million less than what was received in July this year when remittances totaled $889.4 million.

The BCRD attributes the behavior of remittances to the economic performance of the United States, as 84.0% of formal remittance flows in August, approximately $643.6 million, originated from the United States. Factors contributing to this include a low general unemployment rate of 3.8% in the U.S., similar to levels observed before the pandemic. Additionally, the non-manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) of the Institute of Supply Management (ISM) registered a value of 54.5 in August, indicating the sustained expansion of the services sector, where a significant portion of the Dominican diaspora resides.

The BCRD also highlighted the receipt of remittances from other countries in August, such as Spain, which contributed $45.5 million (5.9% of the total). The National District received 36.0% of remittances in August, followed by the provinces of Santiago and Santo Domingo with 13.7% and 9.0%, respectively. More than half (58.7%) of remittances are received in metropolitan areas.

Looking ahead, the BCRD anticipates continued significant flows of remittances, exports, tourism income, and foreign direct investment throughout 2023. These inflows will continue to influence the relative stability of the exchange rate, with international reserves reaching $15,833.5 million at the end of August, representing 13.2% of GDP and about 5.9 months of imports, exceeding international organization recommendations.