ASONAHORES calls for careful analysis in upcoming Tax Reform

Santo Domingo.- The Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (ASONAHORES) has urged the government to conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis of the current tax structures as part of the proposed Tax Reform. While acknowledging the need for a comprehensive fiscal pact to improve tax efficiency and public spending transparency, ASONAHORES emphasized the importance of protecting productive sectors that drive economic growth and job creation.

David Llibre, president of ASONAHORES, highlighted that sectors like tourism contribute significantly more to the economy than what the state loses in tax exemptions. He stressed that any changes in the fiscal framework should support these industries’ continued growth. ASONAHORES reported that from 2019 to 2023, the tourism sector experienced an annual growth rate of 23% and a 6% increase in tourist arrivals. However, hotel industry expansion has not matched this pace, making it a key area for review in the reform process.

The association reiterated that tourism forms the backbone of the country’s economy, creating extensive productive chains that benefit agriculture, industry, and services. ASONAHORES urged the government to ensure that fiscal reforms promote competitiveness and growth while addressing unfair competition and preserving the stability of sectors that attract both foreign and local investment.

Infotep enhances infrastructure to address growing tourism demands

Santo Domingo.- Rafael Santos Badía, General Director of the National Institute for Technical and Professional Training (Infotep), emphasized the institution’s proactive response to the evolving demands of the tourism sector and the broader economy. He noted that Infotep has significantly enhanced its physical and technological infrastructure to align with the requirements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

To support this initiative, the institution has established a multimedia classroom for creating virtual content and launched an Infotep-Huawei Technology Academy. This academy aims to cultivate a pool of ICT talent equipped with advanced technological skills essential for the growth of the Dominican industrial landscape.

Infotep also implements dual training programs directly within hotel environments, ensuring that students benefit from 80% practical experience and 20% theoretical learning. He highlighted the School of Hospitality, Gastronomy, and Pastry in La Altagracia, where over 15,000 technicians have been trained for the tourism sector.

Looking ahead, the establishment of a new tourism school in Sabana de la Mar is planned, following renovations to the former Villa Suiza hotel. This school will focus on cultivating hospitality specialists.

Additionally, the transformation of the Guarocuya Hotel in Barahona into a training school for the tourism and hotel industry was discussed, aimed at serving the Enriquillo region and preparing candidates for the forthcoming tourist center in Pedernales.

Dominican Republic and Argentina to sign open skies agreement

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism, David Collado, announced the upcoming signing of an Open Skies Agreement with Argentina, aimed at enhancing air connectivity between the two nations. This agreement will allow national airlines from both countries to operate flights to any destination within each other’s territory, potentially increasing Argentine tourist arrivals to the Dominican Republic by 150% in 2024.

Collado emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with the Southern Cone, including Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, to offset the decline in European tourism caused by the war and high fuel costs. Chilean tourist arrivals are also expected to surpass 200,000 by the end of the year.

The tourism agenda prioritizes improving air connectivity to reduce high travel costs, while also focusing on sustainable and inclusive tourism. Collado noted plans to issue new resolutions to position the Dominican Republic as a leader in sustainability, accessibility, and luxury tourism.

Dominican Rum industry faces declining sales

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Association of Rum Producers (Adopron) has reported a continued decline in the country’s rum industry, as indicated by the latest data from the General Directorate of Internal Revenue (DGII). In 2022, declared rum sales fell by 0.6%, followed by a 4.3% decrease in 2023. The trend has worsened in 2024, with an alarming 9% contraction in sales by August, resulting in an estimated loss of 4 million liters compared to 2021 levels.

Adopron highlighted that 2024 was expected to be a critical year for the industry’s recovery post-pandemic and following the issues related to adulterated alcohol. However, the recent statistics suggest that this recovery is increasingly unlikely. Spokesperson Circe Almánzar cautioned that raising taxes on the rum industry, particularly the selective consumption tax (ISC), could have severe repercussions, potentially driving consumers to the illicit market rather than reducing overall consumption.

Currently, rum is the only national production category not experiencing growth in 2024, facing significant challenges from the ISC. Despite price increases and high taxation, illicit trade remains a persistent threat, especially in the lower-price segment, with over 70% of this segment displaying unjustified prices. Adopron estimates that 55% of brands exhibit illicit practices, leading to tax evasion exceeding RD$200 million annually.

The association expressed concern that this trend jeopardizes both industry stability and consumer health, as people turn to illegal, low-quality products. They warned that illegal operations have become more sophisticated, even counterfeiting premium brands. Adopron has urged authorities to implement measures to combat illicit trade and safeguard both the rum industry and Dominican consumers.

Caribbean Tourism Exchange’s 28th edition set for October 24-26

Santo Domingo.- Luis Felipe Aquino, president of the Caribbean Tourism Exchange (BTC), announced that the 28th edition of the event will be held from October 24 to 26 at the Convention Center of the Dominican Fiesta Hotel, with support from the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur).

Aquino highlighted that a key attraction will be the presentation of tourism products from various countries and companies, along with the Business Roundtable, which will feature operators from nations such as Canada, the United States, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire, Ecuador, El Salvador, Panama, and Costa Rica. The BTC also emphasizes tourism training, offering workshops, seminars, and conferences on topics like sign language, job inclusion for people with disabilities, neuroleadership, and integrating artificial intelligence tools.

This year’s agenda includes cooking shows, cultural and artisanal exhibitions, religious tourism, and a focus on MSMEs and entrepreneurship. Additionally, the BTC reaffirms its social commitment by supporting the Dominican Foundation for Cystic Fibrosis through a charity fashion show. Aquino expressed gratitude to the event’s supporters and participants, who have contributed to its success over the past 28 years.

Dominican Republic leads Latin America in economic growth for 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has achieved the highest year-on-year economic growth in Latin America, according to the Central Bank’s latest report. From January to August 2024, the country registered an average growth rate of 5.1%, standing out amid a challenging global economic landscape. In August alone, the monthly indicator of economic activity (IMAE) recorded a 5.6% expansion, showcasing the country’s resilience despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

The report attributes this robust performance to effective monetary and fiscal policies, which have kept inflation at the lower end of the target range of 4.0% ± 1.0%. Key sectors driving growth include construction, which rose by 6.9% in August, and free zone manufacturing, which saw an 8.1% increase. These sectors have contributed to positioning the Dominican Republic favorably in regional growth projections for the remainder of 2024.

The strong economic results underscore the country’s leadership in the region and highlight the strength of its macroeconomic fundamentals and the adaptability of its productive sectors. The outlook remains positive, with expectations of sustained growth through the end of the year.

Dominican Republic launches Sargassum and agricultural waste management

Santo Domingo.- The ResAgro-Sargassum project, aimed at tackling the challenges of sargassum and agricultural waste in the Dominican Republic, held its inaugural meeting at the Santo Domingo Institute of Technology (INTEC). The initiative is part of the Franco-Dominican cooperation program on Agricultural Waste and Sargassum Management and was attended by key stakeholders, including Sylvie Gustave-Dit-Duflo, Vice-President of the Regional Council of Guadeloupe and President of the French Biodiversity Office.

Funded by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and coordinated by INTEC, the project seeks to promote sustainable solutions and foster collaboration between Guadeloupe and the Dominican Republic. INTEC Vice-Rector Rosario Aróstegui emphasized that the project is a critical step towards turning ecological challenges into opportunities and advancing sustainable development.

The meeting featured the participation of multiple French institutions, Dominican organizations, and private sector representatives, all working towards innovative strategies for managing sargassum and agricultural waste. Through the creation of the Interuniversity Sargassum Research Network, which includes ten Dominican universities, the project aims to enhance research and practical applications to address these pressing environmental issues.

Puerto Plata to welcome 35 cruise ships in October 2024

Puerto Plata.- Puerto Plata, one of the Dominican Republic’s premier tourist destinations, is set to receive a significant boost in visitor numbers with the arrival of 35 cruise ships in October 2024. Atahualpa Paulino, northern regional director of the Ministry of Tourism, confirmed this influx, highlighting its positive impact on the province’s economy and tourism sector.

Of the 35 ships, 24 will dock at Amber Cove in Maimón, while the remaining 11 will arrive at the Taíno Bay terminal in downtown Puerto Plata. The Carnival Magic and Carnival Mardi Gras will kick off the series of arrivals on October 2, bringing thousands of passengers eager to explore the “Bride of the Atlantic.” Taíno Bay, known for connecting visitors to Puerto Plata’s historic center and local attractions, complements Amber Cove, which remains a modern and preferred port for cruise lines.

The influx of cruise ships not only boosts the local economy but also solidifies Puerto Plata’s status as a competitive destination in the Caribbean, offering visitors a blend of stunning beaches, cultural experiences, and modern facilities.

Dominican economy grew 5.6% in August

Santo Domingo – The activities with the highest growth in August were: financial intermediation (8.7%), mining (8.5%), free zones (8.1%) and construction (6.9%).

The Dominican economy grew 5.6 % in August, accumulating an average growth of 5.1 % in January-August of this year.

The activities that drove growth in August were financial intermediation (8.7%), mining (8.5%), free zone manufacturing (8.1%), construction (6.9%), local manufacturing (6.8%), commerce (6.2%) and transportation (6.0%), according to the monthly economic activity indicator (IMAE), registered by the Central Bank.

Meanwhile, the growth in January-August 2024 is due to the performance of activities such as construction (4.9 %) and free trade zone manufacturing (6.6 %), highlighting those exports under this regime amounted to US$5,691.4 million in the referred period.

Likewise, service activities as a whole showed an accumulated increase of 5.4% with respect to the same period of the previous year, among which the following stand out: hotels, bars and restaurants (7.1%), transportation and storage (5.9%), real estate and rental activities (5.8%) and communications (5.3%).
The Central Bank explained in a statement that this behavior has taken place in an environment of price stability in which inflation has remained this year in the lower part of the mint range of 4.0 % ± 1.0 % as a result of the monetary and fiscal policies implemented.

The entity highlighted that in August mining grew 8.5 %, supported by the increase in gold production in the main gold deposit of the country. This sector had a decrease of 8.9% in the January-August period of this year compared to 2023.

Construction grew 6.9 % in the referred month, which is reflected in the increase of sales volumes of the main inputs used in this sector.

Meanwhile, the financial intermediation activity presented an inter-annual increase of 8.1 % in January-August, influenced by the 15.2 % expansion of credit granted to the private sector in local currency, equivalent to an additional RD$232,425.2 million with respect to August of the previous year.

The Central Bank also highlighted that the expansion of the IMAE in January-August places the Dominican Republic as the economy with the highest inter-annual increase with respect to its peers in Latin America, according to the latest information available to date published by the countries.

Tourist apartments seen as ‘unfair competition’ for hotels in the Dominican Republic

Punta Cana.- Simón Suárez, Vice President of Institutional Relations and Projects at Grupo Puntacana, highlighted that foreign investors are increasingly opting to build apartments in tourist areas instead of hotels due to similar incentives but fewer regulatory requirements. He noted that these projects bypass environmental and municipal regulations that hotels must comply with, creating “unfair competition” in the tourism sector.

Suárez explained that apartment developments offer faster returns since they are sold directly, unlike hotels, which require substantial investments and ongoing costs to maintain the infrastructure. Additionally, hotel projects generate significantly more employment, with a 500-room hotel employing around 800 direct workers compared to just 20 staff for a 200-unit apartment complex.

He emphasized that hotel developments support a broader supply chain, benefiting local farmers, service providers, and other sectors, underscoring the economic ripple effect that apartment projects lack.

Source: Arecoa

Dominican Senate approves agreements on solar energy

Santo Domingo.- The Senate of the Dominican Republic approved a framework agreement for the creation of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) in a single reading. The agreement aims to enhance demand coordination, financing, technology, innovation, research, and training in the solar energy sector. According to the document submitted by the Executive Branch, this initiative will address common challenges for expanding solar energy networks.

Additionally, the Senate approved another framework agreement on cooperation between the Dominican Republic and Portugal, also presented by the Executive Branch. The session further ratified two diplomatic appointments: Robert Miky Takata Pimentel as ambassador to Tuvalu, based in Japan, and Alejandro Arias Zarzuela as ambassador to Uzbekistan, based in the Russian Federation.

Dominican Republic aims for 11.5 million tourists in 2024, despite seasonal dip

Santo Domingo.- The Minister of Tourism, David Collado, remains optimistic about reaching the goal of 11.5 million visitors to the Dominican Republic by the end of 2024. So far, 7,781,690 visitors have been registered in the first eight months of the year. Despite a slight dip in August, with 812,949 visitors compared to July’s 1,017,896, Collado reaffirmed his confidence in achieving the year-end target.

Collado noted that seasonal declines in visitor numbers are expected and emphasized that now is the best time to invest in Dominican tourism. He highlighted plans to diversify into gastronomic, luxury, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism. In August, 675,196 visitors arrived by air and 137,753 by cruise ship, with 54% coming from the United States.

He also mentioned that the open skies agreement with the U.S. would boost tourism, but final approval from the Constitutional Court is still pending. This agreement is seen as a critical step towards increasing competitiveness and allowing Dominican airlines greater access to U.S. destinations.

Tourism SMEs in DR grow 18% in 2024 amidst digital transformation push

Santo Domingo.- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Dominican tourism sector have seen an 18% growth in revenue for 2024, according to a report by Alegra.com, reinforcing their pivotal role in the country’s tourism landscape.

Tourism has long been a key pillar of the Dominican Republic’s economy, and with World Tourism Day highlighting the industry’s impact, the contribution of SMEs stands out. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), 90% of the nation’s tourism businesses are micro, small, and medium enterprises, accounting for 15% of the country’s GDP and creating over 800,000 jobs.

Despite their significant influence, these businesses face both challenges and opportunities, particularly as they navigate economic recovery and the shift towards digitalization.

Recent figures from the Ministry of Tourism indicate that the Dominican Republic welcomed nearly 7 million tourists between January and July this year, an 11% increase compared to the same period in 2023. The United States, Canada and Colombia remain the top countries of origin for these visitors.

The WTTC also predicts that 2024 will set new records for international visitor spending in the country, expected to reach $10.4 billion by year-end. Domestic tourism is also projected to hit an all-time high, with estimated spending of $3.7 billion.

This growth is already being felt by local tourism SMEs. Alegra.com, a cloud-based accounting and invoicing software tailored for small businesses, reported that revenues for tourism SMEs increased by 18% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year.

“Alegra.com is witnessing how more small and medium-sized businesses are capitalizing on the tourism boom to strengthen their operations,” said Haydeé Cabrera, Strategic Leader for Alegra.com in the Dominican Republic. “This sustained growth shows that SMEs are adapting, growing, and solidifying their presence in an increasingly competitive environment.”

Digital transformation remains both a challenge and an opportunity for the Dominican Republic’s tourism SMEs. A 2021 report from the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) highlighted that many of these businesses are limited to basic digital tools like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and email. The report found that 60% of SMEs cite the cost of implementing digital tools and hiring advisory services as a primary barrier to digital transformation, while 80% pointed to a lack of knowledge about new technologies and their applications in the tourism sector.

Cabrera emphasized that embracing digitalization is crucial for tourism SMEs. “For businesses that have implemented digital tools, we’ve seen significant improvements in efficiency, and more importantly, in their long-term sustainability. In a sector where quick adaptation to market demands is key, technology becomes a strategic ally,” she said. “Automating processes like billing, accounting, and inventory management leads to greater efficiency and time savings.”

As the tourism sector continues its upward trajectory, the digital readiness of SMEs will be essential to sustaining their growth and competitiveness in a fast-evolving market. With 2024 already showing strong gains, the future looks bright for the Dominican Republic’s tourism businesses that are ready to embrace new opportunities.

President Abinader calls for international action to stabilize Haiti at UN General Assembly

New York.- President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic, in his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, emphasized the urgent need for international involvement to stabilize Haiti. He warned that the collapse of the neighboring country would have severe consequences for the entire Caribbean region, describing it as a “strategic necessity for security” in both the Dominican Republic and the region. Abinader highlighted that for over three years, Haiti’s instability has created significant security challenges for the Dominican Republic and beyond.

Abinader called attention to the Dominican Republic’s considerable efforts in supporting Haiti, stating that the country has provided essential services to a large Haitian population. In 2023, Haitian immigrants represented 9.9% of the total services in the Dominican health system, and 147,906 Haitian children are currently enrolled in Dominican public schools. He stressed that while his country is committed to helping, they cannot bear the burden alone.

The president commended the establishment of the Transitional Presidential Council in Haiti and the Multinational Security Support Mission but noted that only 400 of the required 1,000 troops have been deployed. Abinader criticized countries that have not fulfilled their commitments to the Haitian crisis, warning that without full international support, Haiti’s collapse would have dire consequences for the region. He thanked Kenya, the U.S., Jamaica, the Bahamas, and El Salvador for their contributions and reaffirmed the Dominican Republic’s commitment to assisting Haiti’s recovery efforts.

Norwegian Luna cruise ship to debut in 2026 and include Dominican Republic in route

Miami—The shipping company announced that Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Cruise Line’s new cruise ship, will debut in Miami on April 4, 2026. From there, it will embark on voyages through the eastern and western Caribbean Sea, including the Dominican Republic.

The 322-meter (1,056 feet) long ship, with a capacity for up to 3,550 guests, will offer a route with stops in the Honduran island of Roatan, the Mexican Costa Maya and Cozumel, and Harvest Cay in Belize.

The other offering will consist of a seven-day eastern Caribbean route that includes Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), Tortola (British Virgin Islands), St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands), and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, which will have a new pier by the end of 2025.

The new ship, the company’s 21st and part of its Prima Plus Class range, will sail from the port of that city in South Florida (USA) for two Caribbean routes during the season from April to November 2026, and whose tickets have gone on sale since today.

Company president David Herrera said the cruise ship is inspired “by the relationship between the Moon and the ocean tides. ” The new vessel will be 10% larger and have a 10% larger capacity than Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, both in the Prima Class range.

“The debut of Norwegian Luna truly shows our continued commitment to providing guests with more of what they enjoy and value: a new ship with the latest and most innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful tropical destinations of the Caribbean,” the executive added in a statement.

The ship has been designed as if it were the “twin sister” of Norwegian Aqua, a luxury cruise ship scheduled to be delivered to the firm in March 2025. Like Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Aqua is the inaugural ship in the Prima Plus Class range.

Both cruise ships are being built at the Italian company’s Fincantieri shipyard. Their interiors were designed by architectural firms AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.

Among the ships’ biggest attractions are the Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid roller coaster and waterslide that will debut next year on Norwegian Aqua and become the longest and fastest waterslide at sea.

Norwegian Luna will also feature the Glow Court, a digital sports complex that will offer interactive activities during the day and transform into a nightclub, as well as The Drop, a 10-story waterslide.

President Abinader presents Open Skies Agreement in New York

Manhattan, New York.- On Sunday, President Luis Abinader led the presentation of the Open Skies Agreement between the Dominican Republic and the United States, aimed at enhancing cooperation and travel between the two nations. The event took place at the Juan Pablo Duarte School in Washington Heights, Manhattan, where the benefits of the agreement were outlined.

Democratic Senator Adriano Espaillat urged the Dominican Constitutional Court to expedite approval of the agreement, allowing it to take effect soon. “We hope the Constitutional Court will approve the open skies agreement so we can soon see its benefits,” said Espaillat.

The agreement is expected to make travel easier for Dominicans visiting their families, while also boosting tourism and strengthening bilateral relations. U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and Environment, José Fernández, praised the initiative, noting its potential to deepen supply chains and create stronger connections between the two countries. He also acknowledged Congressman Espaillat as a key advocate for making the agreement a reality, calling him the “best ally” of the Dominican people.

Presidents of the Dominican Republic and Kenya hold bilateral meeting

New York.- The presidents of the Dominican Republic and Kenya held a bilateral meeting during the UN General Assembly, focusing on security issues in Haiti. They discussed the role of Kenyan police officers deployed in the country and exchanged vital information regarding security concerns.

President Abinader noted that the discussions were significant, with the Kenyan president providing insights about his police force’s operations in Haiti, while he shared details about security measures on the Dominican side.

Additionally, President Abinader is scheduled to participate in the Summit of Leaders of the Global Coalition to Combat Synthetic Drugs this afternoon, at the invitation of U.S. President Joe Biden. The summit, which will also feature Secretary of State Antony Blinken, is set to take place at 1:30 p.m. at the Intercontinental NY Barclay Hotel in Manhattan.

Minister David Collado enhances Tourism safety and transparency

Santo Domingo.- Tourism Minister David Collado is holding meetings with regulatory agencies to enhance the safety and transparency of tourism in the Dominican Republic. He emphasized the importance of solutions that ensure a safe and healthy recreational environment. Collado also met with the CEIZTUR team to improve internal collaboration on key projects, and he reiterated his commitment to transparency in the tourism sector during discussions with Vice Ministers and Project Directors.

Additionally, Collado announced a meeting with stakeholders involved in IDB-funded projects, such as the restoration of Ciudad Colonial, which has gained international recognition. These strategic meetings aim to strengthen the Dominican Republic’s position as a premier tourist destination. In related news, Punta Cana will host the UNWTO summit from October 3 to 5, focusing on promoting tourism between Africa and the Americas.

Aerolíneas Argentinas resumes Córdoba-Punta Cana flights

Punta Cana.- After a four-and-a-half-year hiatus, Aerolíneas Argentinas has resumed flights between Córdoba, Argentina, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, a popular vacation spot for Argentinians. The inaugural flight (AR1326), operated by a Boeing 737 MAX (LV-GVD), landed at Punta Cana International Airport at 8:38 p.m. on September 13.

This new route will offer connections from Córdoba to various Argentine cities, including Neuquén, Comodoro Rivadavia, Mar del Plata, and others, providing an additional travel option for the Argentine interior. Passengers will start and end their journey at Aeroparque, with a required recheck-in and immigration process in Punta Cana.

Flight details are as follows:

• Córdoba to Punta Cana: Flight AR1326, departs 14:00, arrives 20:50 (Fridays and Saturdays)

• Punta Cana to Córdoba: Flight AR1327, departs 22:05, arrives 07:00 (Fridays and Saturdays)

This route complements the existing four weekly flights from Buenos Aires/Ezeiza, adding 2,176 seats per week. It indirectly competes with Arajet, which offers daily flights to Santo Domingo but will soon replace them with non-stop services from Punta Cana.

For the 2024/25 summer season, Aerolíneas Argentinas plans to increase flights to Córdoba from 2 to 4 per week and to Buenos Aires from 4 to 6 per week. New non-stop flights from Punta Cana to Rosario and Tucumán are also set to begin.

Punta Cana is a major destination for Aerolíneas Argentinas, with a 92% occupancy rate in 2023 and 78,030 passengers transported. Argentina is the second-largest source of tourists for the Dominican Republic in South America and the fourth globally. The resumption of flights from Córdoba is expected to boost passenger flow and strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

Santo Domingo enhances MICE segment by hosting ICCA SUMMIT 2024

Santo Domingo.- The Santo Domingo Hotel Association (AHSD) successfully held the 4th edition of SDQ MICE from September 10 to 14 at the Marriott Piantini Santo Domingo hotel, with over 200 delegates participating. The event also hosted the LATIN AMERICA ICCA SUMMIT 2024, aimed at strengthening the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector as part of the Ministry of Tourism’s strategy for market diversification.

Yudit García, president of the AHSD, noted that merging the ICCA SUMMIT with SDQ MICE was a unique challenge, as ICCA had not combined this event with another previously. This collaboration resulted in a more robust agenda and a specialized selection of potential buyers for the Dominican Republic. García emphasized the event’s success, receiving positive feedback from ICCA and international delegates, who deemed it the best SUMMIT they had attended.

The success of the event was attributed to a strong collaboration between AHSD, Turenlances del Caribe, the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), and the Santo Domingo Tourism Cluster. García acknowledged the support from the Marriott Piantini hotel and Colonial Tours, which facilitated transfers and post-tour offerings for delegates. The SDQ MICE Fair serves as an ideal platform for connecting industry leaders and suppliers with international buyers and associations interested in hosting congresses and conventions in the country.