ADOZONA forecasts record job growth in DR’s Free Zones for 2024

Santo Domingo, DR.- The Dominican Association of Free Zones (ADOZONA) has released projections indicating significant job growth in 2024, surpassing the historic milestone of 200,000 direct jobs within the country’s free zones.

Luis José Bonilla Bojos, President of ADOZONA, emphasized the sector’s pivotal role in the national economy, recognized as a primary catalyst for growth and development. It makes a substantial contribution, not only in attracting foreign investment and promoting exports but also in directly creating opportunities for society.

“The creation of over 200,000 direct jobs in the free zones signifies a positive impact, not only on the country’s economy but also signifies progress and sustenance for thousands of Dominican families. This achievement fills us with pride and satisfaction,” stated Bonilla Bojos.

Subsectors contributing significantly to job creation include Tobacco and its derivatives, providing 42,341 jobs; services, with 41,322; textile manufacturing, employing 36,647, and medical products and equipment, generating 32,770 jobs.

Currently, there are 820 operational free zone companies and 87 parks. At the national level, the sector contributes over 197,674 direct formal jobs, with more than half occupied by women, exceeding 100,000 jobs and reflecting the sector’s commitment to promoting gender parity.

ADOZONA reiterates its commitment to the sustainable economic development of the Dominican Republic, underscoring the free zone sector’s crucial role as a driver of employment and prosperity.

David Collado and private sector strive to elevate Dominican Republic’s tourism

Santo Domingo.- The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, has declared the country’s commitment to becoming the leading sustainable tourism destination in the region, following the successful achievement of exceeding the 10 million visitor goal.

Collado emphasized a collaborative effort with the private sector to champion environmentally friendly tourism, emphasizing a vision of sustainability. He highlighted concrete actions that will gradually be implemented, including the reduction of plastics in hotels and tourist establishments.

After surpassing the milestone of 10 million visitors and securing the country’s recovery and leadership, Collado announced the decision to position the Dominican Republic as a regional leader and reference for sustainability.

“We need to better organize tourism for the long term from now on,” stated Collado, expressing satisfaction at starting the year with over a million visitors and projecting 2.3 million arrivals in the first quarter.

As part of the sustainability agreement, the promotion of various segments such as gastronomy, ecotourism, sports tourism, and adventure tourism will be encouraged. These promotions will align with environmentally friendly measures in hotels, beaches, and other tourist spaces.

Minister Collado made these statements before participating in the Mercado Change The World Summit 2024 event held at the Intercontinental Real Santo Domingo Hotel.

Cayo Levantado Resort in National Geographic’s ‘Best of the World 2024’

Samana, DR.-  The Cayo Levantado Resort has achieved recognition as one of the world’s best wellness destinations in the National Geographic’s ‘Best of the World 2024’ selection. This annual guide, curated by National Geographic’s global editorial teams, presents the most thrilling and noteworthy travel experiences for the year 2024.

The guide encompasses a diverse range of recommendations, including hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats, with each establishment serving as a gateway to its destination. The aim is to provide travelers with options that allow for a deeper exploration of culture, history, landscapes, or local life.

Beyond a mere list of suggested travel destinations, this edition features a comprehensive catalog of activity recommendations for each location, offering travelers a wealth of ideas to kick-start their travel planning for 2024.

Courteney Monroe, President of National Geographic Content, expressed, “This year, we wanted to give travelers more ideas than ever to kick-start their 2024 travel planning. We’ve expanded our lists to include hotels, restaurants, or wellness retreats like Cayo Levantado Resort, as well as cultural venues that we think are worth taking a plane for.”

She emphasized that National Geographic is synonymous with the best in travel, adventure, and exploration. The editors aim to share their extensive knowledge across various categories with their global audience.

Remarkable tourist start: over a million visitors in January

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has kicked off the year 2024 with a significant surge in visitor arrivals, hitting a record-breaking number of 1,063,983 individuals in January, encompassing both air and sea arrivals.

During a meeting with the private sector to present first-quarter projections, Tourism Minister David Collado revealed that the country welcomed 742,229 tourists by air alone in January, marking a 10% increase compared to the same month in 2023. This month marked the first time in the country’s history that the 700,000 tourist barrier for air arrivals was surpassed in January.

Collado also highlighted a new record for cruise passenger arrivals, with 321,754 visitors in the same month, reflecting a 17% growth compared to January 2023.

Combining both air and sea arrivals, the total number of visitors reached 1,063,983 in January. Minister Collado emphasized the achievement, stating, “We did it again, breaking our own records.”

The January 2024 visitor arrivals represent a 41% growth compared to the same month in 2019, a 70% increase from 2022, and an 11% rise from the previous year. Minister Collado predicted that the first quarter of 2024 would conclude with the arrival of 2.3 million tourists.

David Llibre, President of the Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores), highlighted that the Dominican Republic has consistently achieved record-breaking tourism arrivals for more than 20 consecutive months, attributing this success to the collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) and the private sector.

MICM celebrates the success of the ‘Made in the Dominican Republic’ seal

Santo Domingo.- Víctor Bisonó, the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs (MICM), celebrated the remarkable success of the “Made in the Dominican Republic” seal on its first anniversary. The MICM has authorized the use of this seal for 815 products across various sectors, representing 80 industries in the country.

Bisonó, in collaboration with the Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic (AIRD), emphasized the seal’s role in stimulating local production and employment. He lauded President Luis Abinader’s vision of placing production at the core of the Dominican Republic’s sustainable economic development.

Expressing gratitude for the enthusiastic industry support, Bisonó acknowledged substantial investments made by companies to integrate the “Made in the Dominican Republic” seal into their products. The seal has successfully passed internal and external audits and is now part of the MICM’s ISO 9001:2015 Certification, ensuring service excellence.

Juan José Attias, the first vice president of AIRD, highlighted the seal as a tool that uniformly emphasizes the identity and origin of Dominican products, fostering national pride. AIRD has embraced the initiative since its launch, aligning with its goal to enhance the positioning of local products domestically and internationally.

Mario E. Pujols, the executive vice president of AIRD, emphasized the seal’s importance in promoting, defending, and acknowledging the significance of products “Made in the DR” for the country’s sustainable development.

The impact of the “Made in the Dominican Republic” seal is evident in the economic sector, providing 146,658 formal jobs and contributing approximately 9% of private employment from January to November 2023. During the same period, local manufacturing exports reached US$1,409.6 million, equivalent to 12.2% of the country’s total exports.

The commemoration event, supported by AIRD, took place in a hotel in the Dominican capital, featuring a keynote lecture by Ricardo Hausmann from Harvard University on the importance of industrial policies for national development. The event also included a digital gallery showcasing products.

Launched on February 8, 2023, the “Made in the Dominican Republic” seal is a distinctive and coordinated effort by MICM and AIRD, available through the MICM Virtual Window. It is granted voluntarily, free of charge, and is 100% digital.

Soficu Group: sustainable tourism initiative for the Dominican Republic

Madrid, Spain.- The Soficu Group, under the leadership of Dr. Gabriel Serrano Sanmiguel, a distinguished scientist and founder of Laboratorios Sesderma, unveils its investment strategy in the Dominican Republic.

In a gathering hosted at the Real Casino of Madrid, the group disclosed its real estate ventures designed with a sustainable ethos to foster health and green tourism in the Bayahibe and Cumayasa regions.

Emphasizing the significance of a novel tourism model committed to health, the environment, and unparalleled experiences, Dr. Gabriel Serrano underscores Soficu’s mission to create local employment opportunities. The construction approach involves the use of natural materials and traditional methods, preserving the authenticity of the environment. Visitors can indulge in luxurious and integrated services with a strong focus on sustainability.

The comprehensive project encompasses hotel complexes and health and beauty services offered at Dr. Serrano’s clinic in Bayahíbe, providing top-notch treatments for discerning tourists. Soficu’s dedication extends to social initiatives, including support for local dermocosmetic products and the establishment of the Dr. Gabriel Serrano Sanmiguel Foundation and the Sesderma Academy of Arts and Crafts. These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life and socio-economic well-being of underprivileged Dominicans.

The presentation showcased Soficu’s steadfast commitment to the country, with Dr. Serrano actively collaborating with the Dr. Huberto Bogaert Dominican Institute of Dermatology and endorsing scientific, cultural, and social endeavors. Soficu heralds a radical transformation in the Dominican Republic’s tourism offering, blending Dr. Serrano’s expertise with the natural beauty of the country. This innovative proposal embodies a transformative and sustainable vision, poised to redefine tourism standards in the region.

Official report: Tourism and free trade zones show growth in December 2023

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development released the “Panorama Sectorial” report for December 2023, highlighting positive performances in tourism and free trade zone exports during the past year.

The report specifies that the arrival of non-resident foreigners by air reached 682,691 tourists in December 2023, for an interannual increase of 17.3%, equivalent to 100.6 thousand additional tourists. Throughout 2023, the arrival of tourists by air reached 6.7 million, which is equivalent to an accumulated interannual variation of 15.9%.

Regarding manufacturing, the real value of the demand for manufactured products reached RD$1,345,243.1 million at the end of the year, a value 0.6% higher than that registered the previous year. However, in December it stood at RD$109,413.3 million, for an interannual reduction of 0.3%.

Real exports from free trade zones showed an interannual increase of 11.7% in December 2023. In contrast, exports and local manufacturing operations, in real terms, showed interannual reductions of 17.9% and 2.2%, respectively.

In the accumulated year 2023, real exports from free trade zones stood at RD$311,250.0 million, for an increase of 1.2%, compared to January-December of the previous year. While real exports of local manufacturing showed an accumulated reduction of 17.9% in 2023 compared to the previous year, after reaching RD$65,552.5 million at the end of the year.

The report also indicates that the value of agricultural exports was US$47.1 million in December 2023, equivalent to an interannual reduction of 9.3%. At the end of the year, accumulated agricultural exports totaled US$784.0 million, for an interannual variation of -6.3%.

Regarding the construction sector, the direct cost index for the construction of housing (ICDV) stood at 220.4 in December 2023, for a monthly variation of 2.4% and an accumulated variation of -1.8%.

In December 2023, a total of 2,300,030 workers were registered as active in the Dominican Social Security System (SDSS), which translates into an accumulated variation of 1.3%, compared to December 2022. The number of formal jobs registered an increase of 1.2% compared to December 2022. In turn, multiple employment showed an interannual decrease of 1.2%.

Regarding salaries, the global index of personnel and remunerations showed an interannual increase of 6.5 points, going from 103.6 to 110.1. In this period, the global index of active workers in the economic sectors showed an expansion of 1.3%, while the global index of salaries in the economic sectors, in real terms, increased to a greater extent (7.7%). This translates into an average real salary higher than that observed in December 2022.

For more information, see the full report “Panorama sectorial” published by the Ministry of Economy, Planning and Development.

Collado secures a deal for four weekly flights from Italy to La Romana

Santo Domingo.- The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, has inked an agreement with Alpitour directors, ensuring the continuity of four weekly direct flights from Italy to La Romana and expressing intentions to introduce a new route from France.

Expressing gratitude for their confidence in the country, Collado remarked, “Thank you very much for believing in our country and ratifying this agreement for four weekly flights to the Dominican Republic.”

The signing ceremony involved Gabriele Burgio, the executive president of Alpitour, along with officials from La Romana Airport and the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), including José E. Marte Piantini and Héctor Porcella from the Civil Aviation Institute (IDAC).

Burgio acknowledged the honor of the opportunity, stating, “We have been flying to the Dominican Republic for many years with direct flights, and we will continue to do so now with four, and who knows if we will be able to increase them in the future.”

Dominican Republic: a rising hub for Microchip investments

Washington, DC.- The Dominican Republic is gaining recognition as a prospective investment hub for the global semiconductor and printed circuit board industry, specifically in the realm of microchip assembly, testing, and packaging (ATP).

The Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF), a prominent think tank for emerging technology sectors based in Washington, DC, has released a feasibility study assessing the country’s potential participation in the semiconductor value chain. The study suggests that the Dominican Republic possesses the necessary conditions to become a strategic player in emerging technology industries.

Semiconductors, often referred to as the “new oil of the modern economy,” are integral components of advanced technologies.

Victor Ito Bisonó, the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, visited Washington, DC, to conclude an agenda that included the unveiling of the feasibility study at the ITIF headquarters.

This event signifies a significant step in the government’s efforts, led by President Luis Abinader, to diversify the economy, ascend the value chain of advanced technologies, and generate new and improved employment opportunities within the country. As one of the primary investment destinations in the region, the Dominican Republic offers a conducive environment for investments in the semiconductor industry and the microchip assembly, testing, and packaging (ATP) sector.

The Dominican Republic is actively establishing avenues for international cooperation to facilitate workforce training, in collaboration with institutions such as Infotep, ITLA, Educa, and other universities. Additionally, the country is investing in research and innovation programs focused on the manufacturing of advanced electronics.

Minister Bisonó, accompanied by business associations including Conep, AIRD, Adozona, Amcham, and media representatives, participated in the presentation of the ITIF report. The speakers included officials from the CHIPS Office of the United States Department of Commerce, representatives of multinational technology companies, industry associations, and experts.

The feasibility study is anticipated to underscore the Dominican Republic’s significant potential in this favorable context, positioning the country as a crucial investment destination and a key partner in the semiconductor industry in a relatively short timeframe.

With the CHIPS Act and the substantial investments announced in the sector, the United States is expected to experience an unprecedented boom in chip manufacturing. The Dominican Republic aims to position itself as a close and reliable alternative for these processes, especially considering the limited number of assembly, testing, and packaging (ATP) facilities in Latin America.

Cabo Rojo’s airport construction is set for March

Santo Domingo.- Sigmund Freund, the director of DGAPP, has revealed that the Cabo Rojo International Airport, situated in Oviedo, is set to break ground in the first week of March 2024. He emphasized that this development marks a significant step in closing the essential circle for tourism growth in the region.

Freund also highlighted the notable progress in ongoing projects in Cabo Rojo, particularly the advancement of the first three hotels under construction. He mentioned that these hotels are making substantial progress in their execution.

The first hotel, set to be operated by the Spanish hotel chain Iberostar, is projected to partially open before the year’s end. The other two hotels are scheduled to commence operations in the first half of 2025.

Regarding the infrastructure, including access roads and the Pedernales-Enriquillo highway, Freund assured that certain sections are already paved. He stated that work is proceeding according to the timeline, aiming to complete these projects in the shortest possible time.

Universal Aviation and Aerodom plan new hangar construction at Puerto Plata Airport

Santo Domingo.- Universal Aviation and Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XII sponsored by Banreservas and the Punta Bergantín Trust, have joined forces to manage the Puerto Plata private flights terminal (FBO). This collaboration involves significant investments to align the facility with the renowned world-class service standards of Universal Aviation.

Danilo Rosario Jiménez, the Director of Universal Aviation in the country, expressed pride in the agreement, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing the user experience at the Puerto Plata FBO. As of February, during the remodeling and construction of a new hangar, they plan to introduce exclusive concierge services, valet parking, Barista coffee, a buffet, and a signature menu for air catering. Additional amenities include covered luggage carts, mini-van transfers to the aircraft, and high-speed internet on the ramp.

This partnership strengthens the existing successful relationship between Universal Aviation and Aerodom, as Universal Aviation has previously managed the La Isabela airport terminal.

Fabien Gourdon, Chief Commercial Officer of Aerodom, highlighted the response to the increasing demand from high-profile clients in Puerto Plata. He noted the success of Universal Aviation’s operations at the La Isabela Airport in Santo Domingo, expressing confidence that the company will bring the same world-class standards to Puerto Plata.

The North coast of the country, encompassing destinations such as Puerto Plata, La Isabela, Sosúa, Cabarete, Gaspar Hernández, Río San Juan, and Cabrera, has experienced a resurgence with the development of prominent tourism projects, including the Aman Group, and new investments like Punta Bergantín, aiming to establish itself as a leading hub for hospitality, business, and leisure in the region.

Puntacana Polo Club announces the first International Women’s Polo Cup

Punta Cana.- The esteemed Puntacana Polo Club is gearing up for a groundbreaking moment in the realm of polo as it prepares to host the inaugural International Women’s Polo Cup. Scheduled for the upcoming Saturday, January 27, the event will unfold at the state-of-the-art Puntacana Polo Club facilities within the renowned Puntacana Resort, signifying a historic occasion as the first women’s polo tournament in the Dominican Republic.

A gathering of elite players from nine countries is set to grace the event. Sixteen accomplished women’s polo players, boasting stellar careers in international competitions, will compete, representing a diverse array of nations, including Argentina, Canada, Colombia, the United States, Italy, Russia, Switzerland, Venezuela, and the host country, the Dominican Republic.

Agustín Arestizabal, the General Director of the Puntacana Polo Club, conveyed his enthusiasm, revealing that each team will feature recognized professionals in the realm of women’s polo. The roster includes Argentine players Clara Martínez Ferrairo, Martina Gadea, and Camila Rossi, alongside Argentine-Colombian player Sofia Rivas. Arestizabal underscored the honor of many participants having honed their skills at the Puntacana Polo Club.

The Puntacana Polo Club, nestled in the heart of Puntacana Resort, has been chosen as the ideal backdrop for this historic tournament. Arestizabal emphasized that the venue not only offers impeccable facilities for the competition but also adds value with the plethora of activities and amenities provided by Puntacana Resort for its visitors.

Sponsored by renowned brands and companies, including Ron Barceló, VegaFina, Mercedes-Benz, Alpha Inversiones, Arajet, Gulf, United Gas, Mónica Varela, and Puntacana Resort, the event enjoys robust support contributing to the success of this unique sports initiative.

Source: Diario Social RD

Puerto Plata prepares for 59 new cruises in February 2024

Puerto Plata, DR.- The Northern Regional Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Atahualpa Paulino, announced on Tuesday the upcoming arrival of 59 new cruises starting in February 2024.

Emphasizing the significance of these cruise arrivals, Paulino highlighted the growing prominence of Puerto Plata as a standout tourist destination in the Caribbean. The cruise itinerary is set to explore the captivating province of Puerto Plata, making use of the tourist ports Amber Cove and Taino Bay.

The distribution of cruise ship arrivals will be divided between the two ports, with 24 scheduled for Amber Cove and 35 for Taino Bay during this period.

Atahualpa Paulino expressed gratitude for the consistent support received from President Luis Abinader and Minister of Tourism David Collado, acknowledging their pivotal roles in the development of the crucial tourism industry in Puerto Plata. He emphasized the ongoing collaboration of both leaders, recognizing the essential contributions they have made to the growth and prosperity of this vital industry in the region.

Puerto Plata is steadily solidifying its status as an increasingly alluring tourist destination in the Caribbean. It not only attracts international visitors but also cruise ships that acknowledge the beauty and potential of this gem in the northern region.

The presence of 59 cruise ships in the upcoming season underscores Puerto Plata’s position as a renowned tourist port and a preferred choice for enthusiasts of cruise travel.

Punta Cana Carnival 2024: a dazzling parade

Punta Cana.- The Carnival is set to dazzle Boulevard 1ro. November of Puntacana Village on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

The grand parade kicks off at 3:30 pm, featuring over 20 troupes and more than 1,500 national and international carnival enthusiasts. This vibrant celebration of Dominican folklore and culture anticipates a turnout of over 15 thousand people, including both locals and tourists.

The Punta Cana Carnival is open to the general public at no cost, with the option to secure prime viewing spots through stage tickets, available at Four Points by Sheraton Puntacana Village, the Visitor’s Center of Puntacana Resort & Club, and Real Estate Sales offices in Galerías Puntacana, Puntacana Village.

This edition promises a family-friendly and secure environment, with the inclusion of food trucks and entertainment.

Focusing on sustainability, the Punta Cana Carnival introduces the Cueva de los Tres Caras, an open space offering gastronomic delights and community experiences. Recycling stations, reusable cups, and the use of biodegradable disposables will further contribute to reducing environmental impact.

The event is made possible with the collaboration and sponsorship of key partners, including All Productions Puezan, Altice Dominicana, Banco López de Haro, Banreservas, Baskin Robins, Bepensa, Banco BHD, BlueMall Punta Cana, Bora Services, Brugal, Café Santo Domingo, Consorcio Energético Punta Cana – Macao (CEPM), Cerveza Canita, Coolekos, Diario Libre, GB Energy – Texaco, Grabo Estilo, Grupo Rica, Hartemania, Hola Punta Cana, Naranja Chica, Pirulin, Tío Leo Cigars, United Capital, and Universal.

Grupo Puntacana, a trailblazer in sustainable tourism with 54 years of expertise, has elevated the Punta Cana Carnival into the Eastern region’s most eagerly anticipated confluence of art and culture. Since its inception in 2008, this event aims to showcase the folkloric traditions of the Dominican Republic and invited countries, drawing thousands of local and international visitors.

New maritime route between the DR and PR

Madrid, Spain.- Executives from the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom) and the Spanish company Baleària unveiled plans at the 44th International Tourism Fair (Fitur) 2024 to transform the Port of San Pedro de Macorís into a multifunctional hub catering to both cargo and tourism, connecting “La Sultana del Este” to Mayagüez, Puerto Rico.

The presentation, led by Alejandro Campos, President of the Board of Directors of the Dominican Port Authority and the Presidential Commission for Port Modernization and Security (Cpmsp), along with Baleària President Adolfo Utor, outlined the vision for the port’s redevelopment. Campos emphasized that this transformation signifies a revival of the maritime legacy and aligns with the progress and development envisioned by President Luis Abinader Corona.

Campos highlighted the strategic role of the Dominican Port Authority, led by Jean Luis Rodríguez, in reshaping the country’s approach to cruise tourism. He expressed pride in rescuing San Pedro and expanding cruise passenger numbers. Adolfo Utor emphasized the significance of the new service, describing it as a vital communication infrastructure that will drive progress, socioeconomic development, and connectivity between the two territories.

Baleària, with over 25 years of maritime transport experience, plans to invest $100 million in launching this new maritime line. The route between Mayagüez and San Pedro de Macorís, spanning 133 nautical miles with a six-hour duration, is set to transport approximately 1,000 passengers, 350 vehicles, and 300 containers to Dominican soil. Operating six days a week and commencing in the third quarter of 2024, the project is expected to generate a thousand direct and indirect jobs.

Baleària aims to use an eco-efficient vessel, potentially becoming the first ferry powered by natural gas in the Caribbean. This initiative represents a significant step in reinforcing the region’s maritime connectivity, promoting sustainable transportation practices, and fostering economic growth.

Dominican Republic recognized for stable economy by WEF indicators

San Francisco de Macorís, DR.- President Luis Abinader announced on Monday that the Dominican Republic has been recognized among countries with stable economies and high growth levels, according to a recent report by the World Economic Forum.

Additionally, the president introduced the ChequéameTú citizen audit program, aimed at allowing the public to scrutinize the government’s activities, fostering trust and transparency.

These remarks were made by the president during the weekly press event, La Semanal, held this time in San Francisco de Macorís.

The head of state highlighted that the World Economic Forum’s new report on future economic growth outlines global trends in 107 countries, utilizing 84 indicators measuring sustainability, resilience, inclusion, and innovation in the evaluated economies.

Regarding some key indicators from the report, such as corruption control, the president noted a 24.0% improvement, with the figure rising from 33.22 in 2019 to 41.21 in 2023. Knowledge-intensive employment saw a 17.5% improvement, increasing from 43.06 in 2019 to 50.58 in 2023.

In terms of international trade openness, there was a 15.4% improvement, moving from 27.90 in 2019 to 32.20 in 2023. The legitimacy of the State improved by 15.0%, going from 40.00 in 2019 to 46.00 in 2023.

The report also indicated a 14.2% improvement in social polarization on political issues, rising from 29.18 in 2019 to 33.33 in 2023. Renewable energy consumption improved by 12.1%, increasing from 14.89 in 2019 to 16.69 in 2023.

Furthermore, the president mentioned an 11.78% improvement in bureaucracy and corruption, with the figure moving from 41.42 in 2019 to 46.30 in 2023. Independence of justice showed an 8.6% advance, rising from 38.12 in 2019 to 41.38 in 2023.

Discussing the quality of the police, the report revealed an 8.0% improvement, with the figure increasing from 45.20 in 2019 to 48.81 in 2023. Internet usage among the population saw a 6.9% improvement, rising from 79.72 in 2019 to 85.24 in 2023.

ChequéameTú:

President Luis Abinader emphasized that the new program, Chequéame Tú, aims to facilitate a social audit of all sectors. The program allows the public to scrutinize the government directly, focusing on indicators of public interest.

“With this program, the population will be able to check their government. We want the population to be vigilant, as the government has nothing to hide,” said the president.

Dominican Republic’s Environment Ministry takes journalists on whale watching trip to raise awareness

Samaná, DR.- The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MMARN) took a group of journalists on a whale watching trip on Saturday in Samaná, a province on the country’s northeast coast. The goal was to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the humpback whales that migrate to the area each winter.

Minister of Environment Miguel Ceara Hatton welcomed the journalists aboard the boat, which departed from the Malecón de Santa Bárbara de Samaná.

“We are in Samaná, we are going to go on a tour to visit the whales,” he said. “It is a unique experience, a cultural experience, an environmental experience, an experience with nature.”

Ceara Hatton emphasized the role of the media in spreading awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable development. He also highlighted the economic importance of whale watching to Samaná and the Dominican Republic as a whole.

“We invite everyone to come to Samaná and see this beauty,” he said. “Today we are accompanied by a group of journalists, people of communication, so that they can also spread the word about this beautiful place that is in Samaná.”

The journalists had the opportunity to see several whales up close, including one that was just giving birth. They also learned about the biology and behavior of humpback whales from a guide who is a certified whale watching educator.

Biologist Nelson García Marcano, head of the Biodiversity Directorate at MMARN, explained that 43 boats are registered for whale watching in Samaná. He said the activity generates significant economic activity for the province, including jobs for boat captains, guides, and wildlife inspectors.

Dominican Republic overtakes Mexico at Fitur with 19 hotel projects announced

The government delegation of the Dominican Republic beat its major tourism competitor, Mexico, in terms of hotel investments presented at Fitur, with 19 projects announced, as opposed to none from the Aztec country.

The Dominican Minister of Tourism, David Collado, summarized that 19 new hotel projects have been formalized for the next three years, with more than 9,000 rooms and an estimated investment of some 3 billion dollars.

Collado explained that of these rooms, 2,627 are in Miches, 5,511 are in Bávaro/Punta Cana, 877 are in Santo Domingo, and 130 are in Santiago.

The Dominican Minister of Tourism also presented the agreement between the Rainieri family and Meliá for a new project in Punta Bergantín, in Puerto Plata.

The Martinón Group and Banco de Reservas also formalized the agreement to construct the first two hotels in the Punta Bergantín project under the Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara brands.

Similarly, Alterra Village and Grupo De Valle announced their plans to develop the first Registry Collection hotels and residences in Jarabacoa.

On the other hand, Cap Cana presented a hotel project of more than 500 million in Juanillo, which will consist of 22 lots to be developed in different phases designed for boutique hotels.

Likewise, the Puntacana Group revealed its next project in the country’s east, with some 80 ultra-luxury rooms under the Playa Serena Punta Cana Resort brand, which is expected to be inaugurated in 2026.

In the marketing section, Collado highlighted that during this Fitur, 16 agreements were reached, including three airlines, 11 tour operators, and two consortiums of travel agencies.

Precisely, in the case of Mexico, the Secretary of Tourism, Miguel Torruco, said that the objectives were met since “we had 40 interviews on the agenda due to the enormous interest of Europeans in the Mayan Train.”

During the Madrid fair, the top leaders of the Spanish hotel chains grouped in the Caribbean Tourism Investors Association (Inverotel), chaired by Encarna Piñero, CEO of Grupo Piñero, expressed to Torruco their intention to expand their investments in other destinations in the country, in a meeting that was also attended by the governor of Quintana Roo, Mara Lezama, as REPORTUR.mx had anticipated (Cancun: major hoteliers ask Torruco for more destinations to invest in Mexico).

At this lunch, held last Wednesday at the Meliá Palacio de los Duques, the investors focused their praise on the governor in charge of the Cancun and Riviera Maya destinations.

The following day, Inverotel associates, at the same establishment, congratulated Collado for reaching the record of 10 million foreign tourists in 2023 for the first time in its history.

Both meetings were attended by the leaders of Meliá (Gabriel Escarrer), Riu (Joan Trian Riu), Bahía Príncipe (Encarna Piñero), Iberostar (Sabina Fluxá), Palladium (Abel Matutes) and Princess (Carlos Poy).

UN Tourism Secretary-General praises Miches

Madrid, Spain.- The Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili, commended the beauty and tourism potential of the Miches municipality during the International Tourism Fair (Fitur 2024), where the Ministry of Tourism showcased Miches, along with Punta Bergantin and Pedernales.

Pololikashvili praised Miches as a destination that marks a new success story in Dominican tourism. He emphasized the rapid establishment of large hotel chains in the tourist municipality, citing notable names such as Four Seasons, Hilton, and Hyatt.

“I went there once, and within 5 minutes, I fell in love with the beauty that Miches has. I am totally sure that Miches will be a destination where people will go to invest, as is already happening,” stated the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization during an interview with Moisés González of the newspaper and program “Despertar Nacional.”

Pololikashvili congratulated Minister of Tourism David Collado for achieving the milestone of 10 million visitors in 2023, reiterating that tourism plays a pivotal role in the Dominican economy.

Participating in the presentation “Miches, towards a reality,” Zurab Pololikashvili also highlighted the collaborative efforts of the government and the private sector to transform Miches into an environmentally friendly destination.

Dominican economy: 2.4% growth in 2023

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s Central Bank (BCRD) reported a 2.4% year-on-year expansion in the economy for 2023, surpassing initial projections and exceeding the Latin American average growth estimated at 2.2% by the World Bank.

The Monthly Indicator of Economic Activity (IMAE), a key indicator of robust economic performance, recorded a 4.7% year-on-year expansion in December 2023, marking the highest monthly rate of the year. This reflects sustained growth, with a 4.2% increase in the last quarter of 2023, surpassing rates observed in previous quarters.

Inflation, on the other hand, showed a downward trend, ending 2023 with an annual rate of 3.57%, the lowest in the last five years. This achievement positions the Dominican Republic below the central target range of 4.0% ± 1.0% set in the monetary program.

The tourism sector played a pivotal role in economic growth, with tourism income reaching US$9,828.9 million, a 16.9% year-on-year increase from 2022. Remittances received in 2023 amounted to US$10,157.2 million, growing by 3.1% compared to the previous year.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) also saw a significant increase, reaching US$4,381 million in 2023, a 9.2% rise from the previous year. Sectors such as tourism, energy, and real estate stood out in this FDI increase.

The construction sector, with positive variation rates since July 2023, has contributed to economic recovery. The facilitation of loans to productive sectors and households, along with reduced interest rates, played a role in this positive trend.

In the international context, the United States, the primary trading partner, recorded a 2.5% year-on-year economic growth in 2023, positively impacting the Dominican Republic’s economic performance.

These optimistic figures position the Dominican economy for favorable performance in 2024, with growth projections of 5%, one of the highest in Latin America. The expectation is that monetary stimulus, public investment, and continued foreign direct investment will further boost economic activity while maintaining inflation within established parameters.