President Abinader confirms open skies agreement with US to lower airfares

Santo Domingo.– President Luis Abinader has announced that the government will sign an open skies agreement with the United States in the coming weeks. This agreement aims to foster increased competition in commercial aviation, ultimately resulting in cheaper airfares between the two countries.

The president revealed that the agreement will be finalized soon after years of negotiation, which involved various stakeholders in the aeronautical sectors of both the Dominican Republic and the United States.

“We are prepared to sign,” stated President Abinader upon his arrival in Washington, where he was honored at the 54th Conference of the Americas, gathering major investment firms from Latin America.

President Abinader emphasized that restrictions on competition in commercial aviation with the United States have historically contributed to high airfare prices, particularly affecting the Dominican diaspora residing in the US and their families.

The US embassy in Santo Domingo has also emphasized the importance of signing this agreement, asserting that it will provide passengers with more service options between both destinations. Under a modern open skies agreement, airlines can offer more affordable air services by reducing limitations on establishing routes between the two countries.

President Abinader suggested that the agreement may be signed after the presidential and congressional elections scheduled for May 19.

Furthermore, the president explained that in addition to expanding North American airline routes, Dominican airlines will no longer face restrictions on their destinations within the United States. This means that Dominican travelers can expect new flight options, lower fares, and improved service from a broader range of airlines in the market.

Dominican Republic reports lowest inflation rate in 46 months

Santo Domingo.- The Central Bank (BCRD) of the Dominican Republic announced on Monday that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) experienced a slight decrease of 0.10% in April, marking a notable interannual inflation rate of 3.03%. This figure represents the lowest inflation rate observed in the past 46 months, according to reports.

The statement issued by the central bank highlighted that the current year-on-year inflation rate falls within the lower end of the target range set in the monetary program, which aims for a range of 4.0% ±1.0%.

Addressing the underlying inflation over the last twelve months, the BCRD clarified that it stood at 3.99% in April, maintaining alignment with the objectives outlined by the monetary institution. This particular metric, as emphasized in the statement, offers valuable insights for guiding monetary policy by excluding items that typically do not respond to liquidity conditions, such as volatile food prices and fuel costs.

With an interannual inflation rate of 3.03% recorded in April 2024, the Dominican Republic is positioned among the countries with the lowest inflation rates in Latin America, excluding dollarized economies like Panama, Ecuador, and El Salvador, according to the BCRD statement.

JetBlue announces expansion with six new flights to Puerto Rico

JetBlue Airlines will introduce six new direct flights from October onwards, connecting the United States, Mexico, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and the Caribbean island of Santa Cruz to Puerto Rico’s three main international airports. The airline announced this expansion in a statement released on Wednesday.

Starting October 27, flights will operate from Providence, Rhode Island, and Westchester County, New York, to San Juan, Aguadilla, and Ponce airports. Services from Santiago, Dominican Republic, and Cancún, Mexico, will commence the following day, with the Cancun route operating thrice weekly.

Flights from Medellín will begin on October 29, operating four times a week, while the Santa Cruz service will commence on December 12, operating once weekly.

Marty St. George, President of JetBlue, expressed enthusiasm for the expansion, highlighting the airline’s longstanding presence in Puerto Rico and its commitment to the local community.

The expansion is estimated to inject approximately $89 million into the local economy and add 273,000 available seats to the current inventory.

Governor Pedro Pierluisi applauded JetBlue’s commitment to Puerto Rico’s market, emphasizing its alignment with the government’s tourism industry growth strategy.

In addition to the new routes, JetBlue will launch its JetBlue Mint service on July 22, connecting John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan. The service offers fully reclining seats, gourmet meals, and enhanced travel options.

To mark the announcement of the new routes, select tickets and services will be available for sale online at a discounted rate for a limited time.

Tourist offer of golf from the Dominican Republic in the Netherlands will be promoted

The Dominican Republic has more than 30 golf courses, 18 of which are of professional level, which makes the country the best destination for golf tourism in the Caribbean, according to the Dominican Republic’s Export and Investment Center (Centro de Exportación e Inversión de la República Dominicana).

For this reason, the ambassador of the Dominican Republic to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Juan Bautista Durán, and the president of the National Golf Commission (CNG), Juan Cohen Sander, established a strategic collaboration to promote golf in European nations and encourage sports exchanges.

During the meetings, several opportunities for collaboration between both entities were proposed to encourage the private sector and fans to invest efforts in sports diplomacy.

Both executives expressed the interest of President Luis Abinader and his government in promoting and developing this important industry for the Dominican Republic’s future. Tourism and real estate generate wealth in foreign exchange, and this is the sport that creates the most jobs and is an inclusive discipline for all.

“This significant meeting marks an important milestone in the intention to promote Dominican golf, an industry that is a tool for integration and development, highlighting its importance and maximizing the strengthening of sporting ties between the Dominican Republic and the Netherlands, thus promoting cultural and tourism exchange through it,” said the diplomat Durán.

Meanwhile, Cohen Sander expressed his commitment to work closely with the Embassy to achieve the proposed objectives.

Puerto Plata strengthens its boom in cruise ships: 43 vessels will arrive in May

Puerto Plata.- The director of Tourism in the Northern Region, Atahualpa Paulino, announced the arrival of thousands of cruise passengers during the month of May 2024, as Puerto Plata will receive a total of 43 cruise ships through the tourist ports Amber Cove and Taino Bay.

“According to the schedule the 43 cruise ships scheduled to arrive at the “Bride of the Atlantic”, 23 will dock at the Port of Amber Cove, while the remaining 20 will dock at the Port of Taino Bay,” he explained.

He stressed the importance of this constant flow of visitors, who not only enjoy the region’s natural beauties but also contribute significantly to the local economy.

“The thousands of visitors who come to the city of Puerto Plata have the opportunity to explore a wide range of attractions, including stores, restaurants, museums, beaches, the Cable Car and other points of interest,” he said.

Paulino expressed confidence that the arrival of these cruise ships will benefit the tourism industry and strengthen Puerto Plata’s position as one of the most beloved and exciting destinations in the Caribbean.

La Chivería Yaguate, a revitalized Dominican gem in San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal, DR.- Amidst the verdant landscapes of San Cristóbal, La Chivería Yaguate stands as a beacon of culinary excellence and eco-conscious hospitality. Renowned as the most frequented destination in San Cristóbal’s burgeoning ecotourism scene, La Chivería has captivated the hearts and palates of visitors from across the Dominican Republic and beyond.

La Chivería’s culinary prowess lies in its masterful interpretation of traditional Dominican cuisine, with a particular emphasis on goat meat and tilapia dishes. Each dish is an ode to Dominican heritage, showcasing the rich flavors that have been passed down through generations. Signature creations include the Chivirico Sureño, Chivirico en salsa de vino, and Chivirico Caribeño, each a testament to the restaurant’s culinary ingenuity.

A culinary adventure awaits

Venturing beyond the goat meat specialties, La Chivería presents an enticing array of delicacies for every palate. Succulent grilled meats, including churrasco and Angus beef fillet, tantalize the senses, while Baby Back ribs and salmon offer delectable seafood options. For those seeking a vegetarian delight, the restaurant’s Mofongo de chivo and Nachos de chivo provide a satisfying alternative.

La Chivería’s philosophy extends beyond culinary excellence, embracing a deep commitment to community and sustainability. The restaurant’s owners, Don Víctor Espinal and family, actively support local education, recognizing the importance of nurturing young minds.

“We are deeply committed to our community and its people. As part of our social responsibility, we support the top-performing students from our local schools. Each month, we invite these students and their families to enjoy a complimentary lunch at our restaurant. This is our way of encouraging academic excellence in our community,” expresses Víctor Espinal, the restaurant’s owner.

“Together with my children, we have created a place where the whole family can come and enjoy themselves. We are committed to providing employment opportunities for people in our community. However, we need more support from the tourism authorities. We are not asking for financial assistance, but rather for promotion and recognition as an integral part of a province that attracts thousands of visitors every month,” he points out.

“La Chivería is currently the culinary business with the highest number of employees in Yaguate. We support local workers, such as blacksmiths who create various animal sculptures for our establishment. We play a vital role in driving the local economy,” Victor emphasizes.

A haven for family and adventure

La Chivería caters to families of all sizes, providing a haven for relaxation and adventure. A petting zoo allows children to interact with friendly farm animals, while fishing ponds offer a tranquil escape into nature. Gazebos, Instagram-worthy corners, and lively bars create an ambiance that caters to every taste and preference.

With a seating capacity of 1,200, La Chivería welcomes guests from Monday to Sunday, from 9 am to 10 pm. To embark on a culinary adventure and discover the magic of La Chivería, follow their social media @lachiveriayaguate or make reservations at 829-439-1007.

President Abinader arrives in Washington to accept leadership recognition

Washington, DC.- President Luis Abinader landed in Washington DC at 7:45 tonight, gearing up to receive the prestigious Chairman’s Award for Leadership in the Americas and deliver a speech at the 54th Annual Washington Conference on the Americas.

Departing from the San Isidro Air Base at 4:00 in the afternoon, Abinader’s visit is marked by anticipation for the recognition bestowed by the Council of the Americas. The award acknowledges his dedication to regional security, democratic advocacy, and anti-corruption efforts since assuming office in 2020.

The ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, May 8, at the headquarters of the Organization of American States (OAS).

Accompanying the President are First Lady Raquel Arbaje, along with key ministers including Foreign Affairs Minister Roberto Álvarez, Treasury Minister José Manuel Vicente, and Economy Minister Pavel Isa. Also part of the delegation are his aides, Eilyn Beltrán and Lourdes Herrera, as well as the head of the Presidential Security Corps (CUSEP), Jimmy Arias, and Julio Eduardo Díaz Sosa.

The Dominican ambassador to Washington, Sonia Guzmán, and the President’s press director, Daniel García Archibald, are among those joining the trip.

The Chairman’s Award for Leadership in the Americas recognizes democratically elected leaders who have shown exceptional dedication to the Western Hemisphere. Past recipients include Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the Organization of American States in 2022; Bill Cassidy, United States Senator in 2021; and Marco Rubio, United States Senator in 2019.

The Annual Washington Conference on the Americas is a pivotal event, attracting top officials to discuss critical issues such as trade, democracy, and energy. It offers a platform for engagement with business and political leaders, diplomats, and special guests from across the hemisphere.

President Abinader and his delegation are expected to return on Wednesday.

Collado unveils plans for new higher education institute in Tourism

Punta Cana.- The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) is taking proactive steps towards addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the country’s expanding hotel sector. Minister David Collado recently announced plans for the establishment of a specialized higher education institute in Punta Cana, focusing on tourism.

Collado revealed that the institute will be funded using Mitur’s reserves, with approximately $20 million earmarked for the creation of a top-tier professional school. The land for the institute’s construction will be generously donated by the Puntacana Group for the benefit of the Dominican State.

“We are investing Mitur’s savings to establish a professional tourism school, aiming to enhance service quality and ensure the sustainability of tourism in the long term,” highlighted Collado. Given that Punta Cana and Bávaro collectively welcome an average of 4.5 million tourists annually, reinforcing education in the region is deemed essential.

Collado emphasized that the initiative will be complemented by a collaboration with the Ministry of Education, reflecting the importance and prominence of the tourism sector in the national curriculum.

In addition to the local efforts, the government is in discussions with a European institution to establish the project through an international public-private partnership. Collado clarified that rather than creating new programs from scratch, they aim to form an alliance with an institution with an international profile to develop what would be an unprecedented educational institution in the country and the region.

Collado stressed the significance of training and preparing personnel with technical expertise to ensure the delivery of high-quality service and the long-term sustainability of tourism. “Education in tourism is crucial, as it’s the primary industry that the country has developed,” he emphasized.

As part of Mitur’s educational initiatives, plans are also underway for the establishment of a Tourist Assistance Center, integrating key government offices to provide comprehensive information to non-resident foreigners visiting the Dominican Republic. The center, spanning 1,000 square meters, is poised to become the largest of its kind in the region.

“We are positioning ourselves to become the strongest tourism force in the entire region,” predicted Collado at the twenty-fourth edition of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024).

Bank BHD commits over US$500 Million to Tourism development

Santo Domingo.- Banco BHD has announced its commitment to structuring financing for hotel and tourist real estate projects totaling over US$500 million, aimed at fostering economic growth in the country.

Luis Molina Mariñez, Senior Vice President of Corporate and Business Banking at Banco BHD, emphasized the bank’s dedication to supporting the comprehensive development of the industry. He stated, “We collaborate with hotel projects, real estate ventures, and the entire business ecosystem, offering tailored advice and structuring facilities to meet our clients’ needs. This underscores our commitment to furthering this vital sector, which is a significant driver of the country’s economic progress.”

Ariel Pérez, Vice President of Tourism and Related Services at Banco BHD, highlighted the bank’s focus on evaluating hotel and real estate investments that promote sustainable tourism in the Dominican Republic, particularly emphasized during their participation in DATE 2024.

At the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange fair, Banco BHD presented its value proposition tailored to the tourism sector. The bank offers personalized advice, loan structuring services, administration of syndicated loans, sale and leaseback, as well as resource management in capital markets and mergers and acquisitions, all provided by a team of experts.

Banco BHD has a long-standing history of financing tourism-related projects, spanning over two decades. Over the last 15 years, the bank has provided over US$850 million in financing to the sector. In 2023 alone, the entity experienced a 47% growth in its credit portfolio, with nearly a 20% increase in market share concerning its total portfolio within the tourism sector.

Establishment of Laguna Arrecifal of Bávaro Ecological Recovery Area

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MMARN) has taken steps to bolster the legal framework for the protection of marine biodiversity by establishing the “Laguna Arrecifal de Bávaro Ecological Recovery Area” through resolution.

Signed by Minister Miguel Ceara Hatton on April 9, 2024, Resolution No. 0008/2024 delineates the necessary restrictions to mitigate the adverse impact on sea turtle populations from vessels engaged in tourist activities.

Covering 18.4 square kilometers of marine space delimited by specific coordinates, the newly designated protected area aims to conserve endangered sea turtle populations, as outlined by José Ramón Reyes, Vice Minister of Coastal and Marine Affairs at MMARN.

Reyes emphasized that the Ministry enforces a stringent management and regulatory program to ensure adherence to protection measures for these species.

Key provisions of the resolution include speed and access restrictions for vessels, a ban on fishing activities and vessel anchoring within protected areas, and the imposition of penalties for violations.

Additionally, MMARN directs various government entities to undertake proactive measures in environmental surveillance and education, fostering awareness about the significance of marine preservation and the protection of endangered species.

The resolution is accessible on the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources website. Vice Minister Reyes encourages the community, particularly individuals involved in navigation in the area, to familiarize themselves with the resolution and contribute to the safeguarding of this invaluable natural heritage.

How tourism continues to drive Dominican economic growth

Punta Cana – The Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores) is optimistic about the future of this sector since the last year, 2023, it closed as the most dynamic productive activity with 10.7% growth and contributed US$9.7 billion in income.

“Tourism has been in this difficult period the main sector that has driven the growth of the Dominican economy. Last year it closed as the most dynamic productive activity with 10.7% growth and contributed US$9.7 billion in income, an increase of 16% compared to 2022,” stressed the entity’s president, David Llibre, at the opening ceremony of DATE 2024.

He explained that in 2023, the average daily expenditure of international tourists also grew from US$130 to US$153.

He highlighted that tourism also registered a record in foreign direct investment, with US$1,822 million, a 12% growth and representing 27% of the total foreign direct investment registered by the Central Bank of the Republic.

“These figures have an impact, not only on tourism projects and the different actors in the sector, but also on an entire society that in a direct and indirect way benefits from the productive chaining that the sector generates,” he said.

He recalled that the tourism projects announced last year in DATE continue to advance. “Punta Bergantín in Puerto Plata has already signed agreements with four important tourism groups that will begin to develop their hotels once the processes established by the related regulations and laws are concluded.”

In the South, he added, “in Pedernales, the first two hotels are expected to be ready by next winter and the necessary infrastructure works and the preparation of the communities for the productive change that began with the opening of the cruise port of Cabo Rojo, which has already received the first two visits of ships with thousands of passengers.”

In Miches, said the president of Asonahores, “the region close to Punta Cana, the construction of new hotels continues to advance. And in the cruise sector, the cruise port of Santa Bárbara de Samaná is expected to be ready by the end of next season.”

Llibre emphasized that the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) “continues its aggressive promotional strategy, through participation in the different international fairs, the presentation of the Dominican tourism product in the different issuing countries carried out by the Minister of Tourism himself, the support for this DATE event, as well as the stimulation of new air routes for the Dominican Republic.”

For this reason, he emphasized that Asonahores “is attentive and follows the processes of changes that are registered in the different segments of the international tourism market, and participates together with the Government and the Ministry of Tourism in the processes to connect us with the behavior and new trends of the markets.”

Hyatt to add 1,000 rooms in Dominican Republic with two new hotels

Santo Domingo – Matthias Hohner, regional commercial vice president for the Dominican Republic and Colombia, explained that Secrets Playa Esmeralda, an adults-only hotel, and Dreams Playa Esmeralda, designed for the entire family, promise an exceptional experience for their guests.

He noted that Hyatt Inclusive Collection’s expansion within the Dominican Republic includes attractive destinations known for their culture, architecture, cuisine, and history, offering something special for every guest throughout the country with popular leisure destinations such as Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Macau, and now in Playa Esmeralda.

“The expansion of our hotel offerings provides options for every type of visitor, from luxury accommodations to a plethora of spaces to provide an unforgettable experience. We continue to listen to our guests and expand our brands in destinations where they want to visit and see Hyatt Inclusive Collection hotels,” said the hotel executive.

In the framework of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024), he emphasized that the Inclusive Collection in the Dominican Republic is an essential priority for Hyatt. It has a portfolio of 15 resorts and 8,069 rooms in five destinations nationwide.

Hohner detailed that recent openings in the Dominican Republic include the hotels: Secrets Tides Punta Cana, with 668 rooms, host hotel for the DATE 2024 closing event; Dreams Flora Resort & Spa, with 520 suites; Sunscape Dominicus La Romana, with 854 accommodations and Sunscape Coco Punta Cana with 1,059.

Details of the new properties
The new properties in Playa Esmeralda will feature ten restaurants, some inspired by different countries, serving exquisite delicacies. Guests will have unlimited access to a wide selection of national and international beverages, various activities, and live nightly entertainment.

In addition to a spectacular beach, the properties offer a wide range of amenities to their visitors, ranging from relaxing pools and a luxurious spa to modern convention centers for all kinds of events, as well as theater, piano bar, sports areas, discotheques, and other amenities, to satisfy all guests’ tastes and preferences.

For the little ones, Dreams Playa Esmeralda offers a space specially designed for fun and recreation in the Explorer’s Club and the Core Zone. Here, children and teenagers can enjoy exciting activities supervised by trained staff. There is a fascinating water park at their disposal for those who prefer to enjoy the water.

Global Growth
Luis Núñez, Global Vice President of Sales, noted that the chain completed a transformational year in 2023, leading the industry in net room growth for the seventh consecutive year, reaching a record level of rates and the highest free cash flow in the company’s history.

The hotel chain’s loyalty program is the fastest-growing in the industry. Membership grew 22% in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching a record of nearly 44 million members.

“We remain committed to expanding our global presence as part of our growth strategy. Each of our properties shares the common goal of enriching our interest in being in strategic locations and expanding options for our guests,” he quoted.

He added that Hyatt Inclusive Collection has a proven track record of preserving the DNA of each acquired brand, maintaining its unique characteristics, and making it the best option for tourists and locals.

Also present at the meeting were Luis Carreño, Director of International Marketing; Elsa Ramírez, International Marketing Manager, Caribbean and Central America; managers from different properties; and special guests.

Frontier will have nearly 34,000 seats on the Puerto Rico-Santiago de los Caballeros flight

Santo Domingo – The Civil Aviation Board (JAC) learned of the request for an amendment to Frontier Airlines’ operating permit to include the San Juan/Santiago/San Juan-Puerto Rico route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays of each week from June 14, 2024, in Airbus A320neo (32N) model aircraft with a capacity for 186 people.

José Ernesto Marte Piantini, president of the JAC, said that the airline’s interest is based on the fact that air connectivity in the province of Santiago is experiencing marked growth through the establishment of new routes and frequencies.

He indicated that according to and based on the data, it is estimated that, from June 2 to December 31 of this year, the airline will offer 33,826 seats, with which it plans to transport 27,061 passengers.

“This increase not only evidences the importance of air connectivity in the region, but also the positive impact on the local economy, since the international connectivity offered by Cibao International Airport is a competitive advantage for the Dominican territory that highlights the impact and strategic relevance in the establishment of the country as a logistics hub in the region,” Piantini said.

Likewise, the entity learned of the request for another special permit from Frontier to carry out flights on the Tampa/San Juan/Santo Domingo/Tampa and Tampa /Santo Domingo/San Juan/Tampa routes, from April 17 to May 4, 2024, with a frequency of one flight every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, on both routes.

Similarly, the members of the JAC plenary learned about the request to amend Southwest Airlines’ operating permit to connect the city of Punta Cana with Baltimore, Orlando, Chicago, Houston, and St. Louis in the United States.

Southwest plans to begin operations on Boeing B737 aircraft with a capacity of 143 seats and on B738 and B738M model aircraft, with a capacity for 175 seats on the requested routes starting in June of this year, with a frequency of one flight every day.

Based on the data above, it is estimated that, from June to December 2024, the requested routes will offer 612,468 seats and carry 587,153 passengers.

Also, the agency learned of the request for a special permit from Rutaca to operate on the Maturín/Santo Domingo/Maturín route from May 1 to August 28 of this year, with a frequency of one flight every Wednesday.

Dominican Republic: record visitor arrivals signal growth and optimism

Punta Cana, DR.- Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, is all smiles as visitor numbers continue to smash records. Collado highlighted the impressive figures at the recent 24th Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE), announcing over 3.2 million visitors in the first three months of the year alone, with air arrivals surpassing 800,000 in March.

This surge in tourism is fueling optimism, and Collado announced plans to invest in the sector’s future. A new Higher Tourism School will be established in the eastern region, a key arrival point for visitors, to further strengthen training and skills development. Additionally, a Tourist Service Center will be built, offering a central location for visitors to access all necessary services.

“This is a super excellent figure, to have the best start of the year in the entire history of the country, and with projections that are constantly growing,” said the official, who held important business meetings.

Likewise, during the event, the Dominican Republic was recognized by Tripadvisor in the Travelers’ Choice® Awards Best of the Best for 2024, as the world’s 4th best honeymoon destination and the most popular in the Caribbean. These awards were received by Tourism Minister Collado.

The official stated that in three months running the country has exceeded the figure of 800 thousand foreigners by air and more than 250 thousand by cruise ships for a total of one million visitors.

“What we have are signs of growth, confidence, new investments, and new hotel chains that believe in what we are doing in the Dominican Republic,” he said.

The official announced that in an alliance with the private sector and international academies, he will work on the installation of a tourism training institute in the eastern region, which is where most of the tourists who visit the Dominican Republic arrive.

“We are going to make an investment with the savings we have in MITUR to create a professional tourism school to have a better service and tourism is sustainable over time,” said Collado.

He added that this initiative will be accompanied by an agreement with Education and the vision of placing the subject of tourism in schools due to the importance and leadership achieved by the industry in the country.

He also announced that on a thousand square meters of land, the largest Tourist Service Center in the entire region will be built, where all State institutions will be located to serve travelers whenever they require it.

David Llibre, president of ASONAHORES, for his part, highlighted the growth that DATE exhibits every year, which he defined as the most important event in the tourism industry.

He said that in this new version more than 800 companies participate that have scheduled 8 thousand business meetings.

He stressed that the Dominican tourism product has been evolving and developing, which is why it has become a benchmark worldwide.

He expressed that in this edition the great variety that integrates the tourism industry such as hotel, real estate, cruise and different experiences, from adventure, health, shopping among others, is combined.

Asonahores: the future of Dominican tourism is promising

Punta Cana.- The President of the Hotel and Tourism Association of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores), David Llibre, expressed optimism regarding the future of Dominican tourism despite recent global economic challenges. He emphasized the pivotal role of tourism in driving economic growth, especially evident in the sector’s remarkable performance amid crisis. Last year, tourism emerged as the most dynamic productive activity, boasting a growth rate of 10.7% and contributing US$9,700 million in income, marking a substantial 16% increase compared to 2022.

Llibre underscored the significant impact of tourism on the economy, citing statistics such as the rise in the average daily expenditure of international tourists from US$130 to US$153 in 2023. Additionally, he highlighted a record in foreign direct investment, reaching US$1,822 million, a growth of 12%, and representing 27% of the total foreign direct investment registered by the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic.

Speaking at the annual fair for the marketing of Dominican tourism products (DATE), Llibre emphasized the broader societal benefits derived from the tourism sector’s growth. He noted ongoing progress in tourism projects, including developments in Punta Bergantín, Puerto Plata, and Pedernales, as well as advancements in infrastructure and community preparation in various regions.

Regarding the cruise sector, Llibre mentioned the expansion of facilities in Cabo Rojo and the anticipated completion of the cruise port of Santa Bárbara de Samaná by the end of the next season. He also commended the Civil Aviation Board’s efforts to enhance air connectivity by opening new flights and routes to various destinations in North America, South America, the Caribbean, and Europe, along with approving codeshare agreements to facilitate connections.

Llibre welcomed the initiatives undertaken by the Ministries of Tourism and the Environment to approve a sustainability plan, recognizing it as a positive step forward for the sector. He also highlighted collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Tourism and Asonahores to promote sustainable tourism practices among hotel groups.

In conclusion, Llibre emphasized the proactive approach of Asonahores in adapting to changes in the international tourism market and collaborating with the government and the Ministry of Tourism to align with evolving consumer behaviors and market trends.

Graphic industry of Dominican Republic leads use of Caribbean technology

Santo Domingo – The Dominican Republic’s printing industry is a leader in the use of technology in the Caribbean region. Between 60% and 70% of its production processes are digitalized.

In addition, it is positioned as one of the main exporters of its products in the region, only surpassed by the Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago.

The main export destinations for books, magazines, inserts, and brochures are Puerto Rico and Haiti.

Sales to international trade of Dominican products in this sector averaged US$350 million in the last two years, according to statistics from the Ministry of Industry, Trade and MSMEs (MICM).

Participating in the Economic Meeting of the newspaper HOY, the president of the Dominican Association of Graphic and Related Industries (ADIGA), William Calderón, highlighted the great technological advances in the graphic sector, which is why more than half of the companies have converted their offset printing machines to digital, increasing their efficiency. quality and competitiveness.

Calderon said that when new machinery is launched in Europe, especially in Germany, the largest manufacturer of printing machines, the Dominican Republic is one of the first countries to invest in such equipment.

He pointed out that this happens especially in medium and large companies in the sector, while the smaller ones benefit from the sales of machines being changed locally.

He said that there are printing machines in the country that were difficult to see years ago in four-body offset. However, now there are six and even eight bodies, which have great efficiency and speed to print.

Tariff Reduction

The president of Adiga said that despite the advances registered by the printing industry in relation to the use of state-of-the-art machinery, the equipment has many tariffs.

He considered the day when that sector could pay fewer tariffs to be much better.

He said that Law 542-14 on Innovation and Industrial Competitiveness does not benefit this sector because it is composed mostly (90%) of small and medium-sized industries (SMEs) that find it difficult to comply with the requirements of that regulation.

Chaining

On the other hand, Adiga’s president said there is no productive link between the Dominican printing industry and foreign companies in free trade zones since the latter prefer to import their printing services.

In this regard, Calderon asked the MICM to make the necessary efforts to establish this “match.”

Hyatt Inclusive Collection expands with two new hotels in Esmeralda Beach

Punta Cana- Hyatt Inclusive Collection is amplifying its expansion strategy in the Dominican Republic with the debut of two new hotels in Playa Esmeralda in 2024, namely Secrets Playa Esmeralda and Dreams Playa Esmeralda, collectively adding a thousand luxurious rooms to their portfolio.

Matthias Hohner, the Regional Commercial Vice President for the Dominican Republic and Colombia, elaborated that both Secrets Playa Esmeralda, catering to adults only, and Dreams Playa Esmeralda, designed for families, pledge an exceptional experience for their guests.

He emphasized that the expansion plan of Hyatt Inclusive Collection in the Dominican Republic encompasses captivating destinations renowned for their culture, architecture, cuisine, and history, promising something extraordinary for every guest across the country, including popular leisure spots like Punta Cana, Cap Cana, Macau, and now, Playa Esmeralda.

Hohner, speaking within the framework of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024), underscored that the presence of Inclusive Collection in the Dominican Republic stands as a pivotal priority for Hyatt, boasting a portfolio of 15 resorts and 8,069 rooms across five destinations in the country. He elucidated that recent additions in the Dominican Republic encompass hotels such as Secrets Tides Punta Cana, serving as the host hotel for the concluding event of DATE 2024, along with Dreams Flora Resort & Spa, Sunscape Dominicus La Romana, and Sunscape Coco Punta Cana.

Details of the new properties reveal a plethora of amenities, including ten restaurants offering diverse cuisines inspired by various countries, unlimited access to domestic and international beverages, daytime activities, live evening entertainment, expansive pools, a luxurious spa, modern convention centers, theaters, piano bars, sports areas, nightclubs, and more to cater to all preferences.

For young guests, Dreams Playa Esmeralda features the Explorer’s Club and the Core Zone, offering supervised activities for children and teenagers, alongside a thrilling water park.

Global Vice President of Sales, Luis Núñez, highlighted the chain’s transformative year in 2023, leading the industry in net room growth for the seventh consecutive year, achieving record rates and the highest free cash flow in the company’s history. The loyalty program also experienced significant growth, with almost 44 million members recorded. Núñez reiterated their commitment to expanding global presence while maintaining the unique characteristics of each property, aiming to enrich guest experiences and strategic options.

The meeting also saw the participation of Luis Carreño, Director of International Marketing, Elsa Ramírez, International Marketing Manager for the Caribbean and Central America, property managers, and special guests.

Frontier Airlines expands routes from San Juan to Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- Frontier Airlines has unveiled plans to introduce two new non-stop routes from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to the Dominican Republic and Barbados. The service to the Dominican Republic will commence on June 14, followed by the route to Barbados on July 3.

Departing from the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in Carolina, the flight to the neighboring Dominican Republic will arrive at the Cibao International Airport in Santiago. Meanwhile, the route to Barbados will land at the Grantley Adams International Airport in Seawell.

Josh Flyr, Vice President of Network Design and Operations at Frontier Airlines, expressed excitement about the expansion, highlighting the support from the new crew base in San Juan set to open in June. The new routes will initially operate three times a week, with introductory fares starting at $59.

Jorge Hernández, President and CEO of Aerostar Airport Holdings, which manages Luis Muñoz Marín Airport, emphasized the significance of Frontier’s expanded service in enhancing Puerto Rico’s connectivity within the region.

Carlos Mercado Santiago, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, hailed the move as a step towards bolstering Puerto Rico’s position as a leading aviation hub in the Caribbean.

Frontier’s decision to establish a new crew base at Luis Muñoz Marín Airport is anticipated to inject over $80 million annually into the local economy. In its inaugural year, the airline aims to hire approximately 90 pilots, 200 flight attendants, as well as additional airport and maintenance staff.

Puerto Plata prepares for DATE 2024

Puerto Plata, DR.- Utilizing its new destination brand as a promotional tool, Puerto Plata is gearing up for its participation in the twenty-third edition of the Dominican Annual Tourism Exchange (DATE 2024), set to take place from April 24 to 26 at the Paradisus Palma Real hotel in Punta Cana.

A delegation consisting of presidents, executive directors, and members of the destination’s Tourism Cluster (CTDPP), as well as the Associations of Hotels, Restaurants, and Tourism Companies of the North (Ashonorte), Playa Dorada Hotels (ADHPD), and Hotels and Restaurants of Sosúa and Cabarete (ASHORESOCA), will present credentials highlighting the significant progress achieved, promising the most successful iteration of DATE yet.

Amidst the Dominican tourism sector’s flourishing momentum and following months marked by remarkable dynamism, including successful participation in international events held in Colombia, Puerto Rico, and Miami, Florida.

Companies such as Ocean World Adventure Park, Chukka Caribbean, Universal Aviation, The Ocean Club Group, Vinícola del Norte, Senator Hotels and Resorts, Nature River Park, VH Hotels & Resorts, Viva Resorts, Casa Marina Beach and Reef, Hodelpa Hotels, Blue Bay Villas Doradas, Marien Puerto Plata, Mint Hotels & Residences, Lifestyle Holidays Hotels & Resorts, Fricolandia, Runners Adventures, Chocolate del Oro, El Gallo Ecolodge, La Aurora, Manureva Tours, Freedom Builders Global Group, will be representing the destination at DATE, showcasing its array of hotels, complementary attractions, culinary options, luxury tourism offerings, and events, along with investment opportunities, to 300 buyers from international companies and around 600 supplier delegates from the national tourism sector.

Dominican mayors urged to embrace Fourth Industrial Revolution

Punta Cana, DR.– Rafael Santos Badía, the Director General of the Technical and Vocational Training Institute (INFOTEP), delivered a lecture entitled “The Fourth Industrial Revolution and Its Implications for Public Management” to hundreds of elected mayors from different municipalities across the country. The mayors were attending the commemorative events of Municipalist Week, organized by the Dominican Municipal League.

Santos Badía proposed that mayors align their management with the advancements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and promote technical and vocational training for their constituents. He encouraged them to join the initiative to establish INFOTEP centers in each municipality as a way to stimulate the local economy.

“Through the use of new technologies, we can collect solid waste more efficiently, control traffic in cities, monitor people’s safety through smart cameras, control the frequency of services, manage taxes, and achieve successful management. All it takes is two processes: one is to digitally literate the population and the other is technical and vocational training,” he stated.

He pointed out that there is an underutilized figure in Law 176-07 that, if used, could bring about the transformations demanded by the municipalities.

“This figure is called ‘mancomunidad’ which promotes the concept of joining forces to do the same thing, and the figure of associationism, which is in the law – let’s pool our limited resources so that together we can solve the big problems – and this can be done by uniting several municipalities, which would bring solutions, for example, to the issue of landfills,” he explained.

He emphasized that in this way, all personnel will be trained and qualified in the various areas required through joint training for the development of technical and vocational training.

“The social problem in the Dominican Republic will not be solved with more solidarity cards and more appointments in the municipalities. The way to develop our territory is to train people, attract investment, and develop companies that generate wealth. When a person earns a salary, they fix their house, buy clothes for their family, supermarkets come in, and progress arrives. This is the miracle of human resource development,” he explained.

Dominican Municipalist Week

On the occasion of Municipalities Day, the Dominican Municipal League (LMD) kicked off Dominican Municipalist Week, with the aim of highlighting the fundamental role of local governments in promoting development and advancing their institutional strengthening. The theme of the week will be “More Capacities for a Local Power at the Service of the People.”

Dominican Municipalist Week will be held from April 19 to 30, coinciding with the inauguration of the new elected municipal authorities (2024-2028), who will receive their certificate of participation in the National Training Program for Municipal Authorities, an initiative developed by the Dominican Municipal League with the support of institutions such as the Technical Institute for Vocational Training (Infotep) and the University of the Caribbean (Unicaribe).

The event, headed by Víctor D’Aza, president of the LMD, José Alejandro Aybar, chancellor of Unicaribe, and Rafael Santos Badía, director general of INFOTEP, was attended (virtually) by the Minister of the Presidency Joel Santos, Jesús Vázquez, Minister of Interior and Police, Darío Castillo, Minister of Public Administration, Kelvin Cruz, president of Fedomu.

Also in attendance were international guests Karen Labrador, director of the Colonia de Bogotá, Colombia, Zoila Milagro Navas, mayor of Antiguo Cuscatlán in El Salvador. Also present were Maira Morla, deputy general director of INFOTEP, Briunny Garabito, Dominican ambassador to China, and Altagracia Tavárez, director of the Municipal Administration program at UNICARIBE, among others.