AGP Executive Report

Judicial Shake-Up: Supreme Court judge María Garabito Ramírez notified President Luis Abinader and the CNM she won’t take part in the magistrates’ evaluation, meaning she stays in office until a replacement is sworn in. Top Court Personnel: Supreme Court president Luis Henry Molina and judge Nancy I. Salcedo Fernández also said they won’t seek renewal, reshaping the CNM evaluation process. New Legal Rules: The Dominican Republic’s new Penal Code takes effect, adding penalties for defamation on social media and expanding anti-corruption measures. Politics & Elections: Citizens largely rejected allowing police and military personnel to vote in presidential elections, citing corruption and the role of the armed forces. Migration & Security: The Dominican Migration directorate said it’s intensifying efforts against networks that facilitate irregular migration, including transport, housing, and evasion routes. Health Cooperation: “Friendship 2026” launched in La Vega with U.S. Air Force medical teams working alongside Dominican hospitals for two weeks of free care and training. Economy & Trade: CONEP’s Celso Juan Marranzini warned a 12.5% U.S. tariff could hit DR exports unless the country secures preferential access tied to nearshoring. Labor Data Push: Mexico’s INEGI is helping the Ministry of Labor modernize labor statistics and monitoring systems. Business & Tourism: Santo Domingo marked 528 years as the historic capital, while the government launched a national forum for Meta RD 2036 to target doubling the economy by 2036. Sports: DR hosted the UNI Américas trade union forum, and Santo Domingo’s Central American and Caribbean Games continued amid heat and major results.

Tourism Boom: Dominican Republic hit a record 7,700,118 visitors in Jan–July 2026, up 7% year-on-year, with July alone setting a new monthly high as air and cruise arrivals keep climbing. Trade & Investment Push: Sharjah’s business chamber (SCCI) met the DR’s ambassador to expand trade ties, while Central America, Panama and the DR’s private sector groups agreed to revive a shared agenda focused on integration and investment. Ethical AI Summit: The DR hosted a regional ethics-of-AI summit that produced the Declaration of Santo Domingo and a 2026–2027 roadmap for responsible AI governance. Medical Tourism Shock: NYPD officer Rebecca De Paula died in Santo Domingo after complications from breast implant removal, with family demanding a malpractice probe. Ports Decarbonization: DP World began electrifying its Chilean port operations with electric transfer vehicles and charging infrastructure. Sports (Santo Domingo 2026): Venezuelan Andrea Moros won bronze in women’s fencing, while DR’s athletics and other CAC Games results kept the spotlight on the host city. Business/Finance: IMF and Trade.gov updates reaffirm the DR’s strong economic outlook under President Luis Abinader.

Tourism Boom: The Dominican Republic welcomed a record 7.7 million visitors in the first seven months of 2026, up 7% year over year, with July alone bringing 1.08 million travelers and strong hotel occupancy. Economic Outlook: New IMF and Trade.gov updates highlight steady growth and deep U.S. trade ties under President Luis Abinader, reinforcing the country’s investment appeal. Finance & Business Climate: Banco Caribe’s outlook was upgraded to “Positive” by Feller Rate, while ANEIH opened entries for the National Quality Award for the Private Sector. Jobs & Wages: ONE data shows formal business employment fell slightly in 2024, but average monthly salaries rose, with mining and electricity among the top pay sectors. Health & Infrastructure: The SNS announced a major, near one-billion-peso renovation of Salvador B. Gautier Hospital in Santo Domingo. Environment & Marine Life: Researchers are pushing sargassum solutions, and a new forum warned climate-driven damage could threaten key coastal ecosystems and tourism. Energy Investment: RAAS Solar launched Tesla Solar Roof in the DR, expanding solar-plus-storage options for homes and businesses. Public Safety: A Santo Domingo Este case continues after an accomplice surrendered in the killing of an Air Force officer, who later died from injuries.

Judiciary Update: Supreme Court of Justice president Henry Molina told the National Council of the Magistracy he won’t seek another term, setting up the next leadership selection process. Justice Process: The CNM approved the schedule for evaluating SCJ judges whose term ended April 3, aiming to keep deadlines and due process on track. Public Administration: President Luis Abinader appointed communicator Odalis Marcelino Vega as executive sub-director of Inespre, replacing Ramón Francisco Toribio, to strengthen access to affordable food-basket products. Housing & Safety: MIVHED and SINEDOM trained nearly 200 professionals on the Dominican Republic Building Code’s structural analysis and design updates. Food Security & Social Services: DIDA reported 824,218 guidance and advocacy services to SDSS affiliates in the first half of 2026, plus training and monitoring for health providers. Economy & Assets: National Assets collected RD 57.3 million in a public auction covering vehicles, furniture, motorcycles for parts, and scrap metal. International Pressure on Trade: The DR was named among Caribbean countries hit by new U.S. import tariffs tied to forced-labor claims. Health & Oversight: A family of NYPD officer Rebecca De Paula is demanding a malpractice investigation after her death following breast implant removal surgery in Santo Domingo. Sports Spotlight: Dominican Republic was awarded bronze in softball at the CAC Games after rain forced cancellation of medal matches.

Penal Code Overhaul: The Dominican Republic’s new Penal Code takes effect today, reshaping sanctions and adding crimes, with lawmakers highlighting updates tied to freedom of expression, privacy, and anti-corruption. Justice & Oversight: Deputies also point to a new monitoring commission led by Milton Ray Guevara to track implementation. Energy Pressure: With extreme heat pushing electricity demand to new highs, the energy minister urges conservation and says a mandatory efficiency plan is now in place for public institutions. Marine Conservation: A new INTEC study warns mangrove degradation could cost the country about US$75 million a year, linking ecosystem loss to weaker tourism and slower growth. Gambling Crackdown: A revised gambling bill would impose up to 10 years in prison for serious violations by executives and administrators, aiming to stop illegal betting shops and raffles. Public Apology: TV host Aneudys Santos apologizes to U.S. Ambassador Leah Francis Campos after offensive remarks. Health Tragedy: A decorated NYPD cop, Rebecca De Paula, dies after breast implant removal surgery in Santo Domingo, with family alleging a post-op bacterial infection. Sports Spotlight: Marileidy Paulino returns for the 4×400 mixed relay at Santo Domingo 2026, while sailing and wrestling results continue to roll in from the CAC Games.

Central American Games in Santo Domingo: The Dominican Republic awarded bronze to itself after rain and wind forced cancellation of the Mexico–DR bronze-medal match and the gold-medal game at Duarte Stadium, while Puerto Rico took gold in women’s softball after an undefeated run. Diplomacy: Venezuela and the Dominican Republic agreed to begin a gradual normalization of diplomatic and consular relations, starting with restoring consular services after a two-year rupture. Sports spotlight: Marileidy Paulino will add the 4×400 mixed relay to her CAC Games schedule, aiming to boost the DR medal haul. New Penal Code: The Dominican Republic’s updated Penal Code takes effect Aug. 3, expanding crimes and sanctions and updating rules affecting freedom of expression, medical practice, corporate liability, and protections for minors. U.S.-DR public spat: U.S. Ambassador Leah Francis Campos defended freedom of expression after communicator Aneudys Santos apologized for offensive comments tied to faith and debate over the Penal Code. Border/entry rules: A U.S. case involving an Atlanta airport search of a traveler’s phone and diary raises questions about Fourth Amendment limits at ports of entry.

Diplomacy Reset: Venezuela and the Dominican Republic agreed to begin a gradual normalization of diplomatic and consular relations after a two-year rupture, starting with restoring consular services under a jointly built roadmap. Sports Spotlight: Marileidy Paulino will add the 4×400 mixed relay to her Central American and Caribbean Games schedule, with the final set for Monday night at the Félix Sánchez Olympic Stadium. New Penal Code: The Dominican Republic’s updated Penal Code takes effect Monday, Aug. 3, bringing new crimes, tougher penalties, and changes affecting freedom of expression, medicine, corporate liability, and protections for minors. Public Access & Tourism: The Ministry of Tourism reiterated that Dominican public beaches are free for everyone, pushing back on claims that hotels or resorts can block access. Health & Safety: Dengue cases reached 185, while respiratory illnesses were reported stable, as public health messaging urged people to verify doctors’ credentials before procedures. Regional Security: The Dominican Republic joined Panamax 2026, a multinational drill focused on protecting the Panama Canal’s strategic routes. Culture & Community: Dajabón’s Nikkei community recognized the “Migrantes” documentary program for documenting Japanese immigration history in the DR.

Central American Games in Santo Domingo: The Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games keep rolling, with COD president Garibaldy Bautista saying the Central American Village is running smoothly and Dominican athletes are showing strong form. Sports spotlight: Venezuela’s José Díaz won gold in men’s wrestling (125kg), while Rodolfo Monacelli took bowling gold in the men’s total event, edging Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Tourism and beaches: The Ministry of Tourism reiterated that Dominican public beaches are free for everyone, even if hotels can manage private facilities. Cruise growth in Puerto Plata: Apordom says Puerto Plata will get 29 cruise ship calls in August, with Amber Cove and Taino Bay splitting the schedule and peak days on Aug. 5, 18 and 19. Heat and power strain: INDOMET reported record heat index levels in July, pushing electricity demand to new highs and contributing to blackouts.

Tourism & Rights: The Ministry of Tourism says Dominican public beaches are free for everyone and hotels can’t block access to public shoreline. Sports & Santo Domingo 2026: COD president Garibaldy Bautista praised Central American Games organization and Dominican athletes’ performance, while Centro Caribe Sports expects “record attendance” as the event nears its final stretch; the Central American Village’s security and check-in system was also explained. Health: Public Health reports dengue remains controlled but cases rose to 185 (week 28), with respiratory illnesses stable. Weather & Power: July heat pushed the heat index to record highs (up to 48°C in Greater Santo Domingo), driving electricity demand to a new peak and triggering blackouts. Migration: The Migration Policy Observatory says more than 226,500 people in irregular status have been deported this year, alongside reports of trafficking networks. Cruise Economy: Apordom says Puerto Plata gets 29 cruise calls in August, with Amber Cove and Taíno Bay splitting the schedule. Culture & Business: Arajet and Centro León renewed their partnership to promote Dominican art abroad.

Central American Games Buzz: Centro Caribe Sports says Santo Domingo 2026 is on track for “record attendance” as the event heads into its final stretch. Sports Results: Venezuela beat El Salvador 2-0 in women’s soccer at the Santo Domingo 2026 Games, while field hockey set up a semifinal clash with Cuba after a 6-2 loss to Mexico. Health Watch: The Ministry of Public Health reports dengue cases rising to 185 (week 28), with respiratory illnesses staying within expected seasonal levels. Governance & Justice: Relatives of Pablo Adón protest his 15-day detention extension at San Luis, saying there’s no arrest warrant and visits are restricted. Water & Infrastructure: President Abinader inaugurated the Juan Dolio wastewater treatment plant and outlined plans to expand treatment in Boca Chica and other coastal/tourist areas. Banking Leadership: Alejandro Fernández W. announced he’ll step down as Superintendent of Banks on Aug. 16 after six years. Culture & Education: Funglode launched a Criminal Compliance Plan for the Health Sector, and PUCMM students presented the docuseries “Inventing the Future” on youth, jobs, and informality.

Banking Leadership: Alejandro Fernández W. will step down as Superintendent of Banks on Aug. 16, ending a six-year tenure as the regulator pushes financial-system reforms. Anti-Corruption Justice: The newly approved Dominican Penal Code expands anti-corruption tools, including tougher penalties, longer investigation limits, and criminal liability for companies. Public Safety & Environment: The Environment Ministry tightens forest-fire prevention with more surveillance and a temporary ban on unauthorized agricultural burning through Aug. 31. Migration & Consular Work: Foreign Minister Raina Forbin met Haitian officials to improve consular protection and coordination for Haitians in the DR amid migration pressures. Smuggling Crackdown: Authorities seized 580,000 contraband cigarettes from Haiti in a truck interception in Villa Vásquez, with the case headed to prosecution. Housing/Permitting for Investment: MIVHED and Cap Cana discussed faster, more transparent permitting reforms, including a new digital platform, after reporting a surge in building permits and private investment. Tourism & Business: SDQ MICE 2026 returns Sept. 21-23 in Santo Domingo to boost the meetings industry, while Arajet reported surpassing one million passengers in its first half of 2026.

Public Safety & Justice: Court orders trial for councilman Walky Cuevas Charles and W. Cuevas Autoimport over alleged drug trafficking and money laundering, keeping precautionary asset measures in place. Tourism & Rights: Tourism Minister David Collado says private security can’t block public beach access; an interagency group will set guidelines for disputes. Health Infrastructure: SNS begins the first phase of renovating Salvador B. Gautier Hospital with nearly RD$1 billion to modernize facilities and improve care. Public Administration: MAP launches in-person audits of state payrolls to fix discrepancies and estimate the real number of public workers. Sports (Santo Domingo 2026): Venezuela’s Arlex Méndez and Clever Martínez win silver in men’s Madison; Jhorman Sivira takes bronze in BMX racing; sports shooting earns first bronze in team trap. International Spotlight: Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez warns trafficking victims are being coerced into crimes like fraud and cybercrime.

Tourism & Infrastructure: Tourism Minister David Collado broke ground on a RD$136.9 million renovation of Los Almendros Beach and the Baní boardwalk, adding plazas, terraces, green areas, vendor kiosks, lighting, utilities, restrooms, and safer pedestrian access to boost the waterfront experience. Tourism Regulation: Collado also said the government will create an Airbnb-style national registry to improve tourist safety and emergency response—without shifting tax duties to the tourism ministry. Public Administration: The Ministry of Public Administration (MAP) has started in-person audits of state payrolls to reconcile headcounts across agencies, with three firms involved and results expected by December. Public Health: Health authorities are pushing 100% smoke-free environments nationwide and warning that designated smoking areas don’t protect people from secondhand smoke or vaping emissions. Crime & Migration: Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez warned that traffickers are increasingly forcing victims into organized crime, including fraud and cybercrime, under coercion. Culture: The Culture Ministry reviewed renovation progress at the Schools of Fine Arts and Manuel Rueda Hall, upgrading lighting, equipment, and facilities for music, dance, visual arts, and performing arts. Sports (CAC Games): With Santo Domingo 2026 underway, Venezuela’s Manuel Díaz won silver in the men’s 200m butterfly and the men’s 4x100 freestyle relay team took bronze, while organizers warn heat, humidity, and Saharan dust are testing athletes’ limits. Justice & Safety: Relatives of a child who died in Santo Domingo Oeste are demanding deeper investigation into the circumstances of his death.

Sports & Health at the Games: The SNS says it’s ready for the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games, citing a network of 200+ hospitals, 1,710 primary care units, and nearly 89,000 staff, with free care for athletes and visitors. Presidential Spotlight on Local Football: President Luis Abinader met Salcedo FC executives and players to celebrate their 2025-2026 Dominican Soccer League title, praising teamwork and promising support for Dominican soccer, including a hoped-for stadium in Salcedo. Public Scrutiny of Ministry Funds: Tax and fiscal consultant Joseph Abreu argues that Pastor Yesenia Then’s explanations about her ministry’s finances don’t amount to real accountability, saying the materials lack verification of donations and how funds were managed. Politics & Elections: Influencer-businessman “Alofoke” says he will not accept a PRSC presidential nomination and instead plans to form his own political party for the 2028 elections.

Constitutional Court Ruling: The government says it will respect the court decision striking down a 2006 decree that permanently restricted alcohol sales hours, with Interior Minister Faride Raful promising new legislation through Congress. Public Health: The Ministry of Public Health confirmed mpox cases at a San Cristóbal detention center, saying the outbreak is contained with no evidence of community spread while contacts are monitored. Energy Demand: SENI logged a new electricity demand record of 4,277 MW, the second straight day of peaks as summer temperatures and activity push consumption higher. Tourism & Aviation: DR welcomed 11.6 million international visitors in 2025, ranking second in Latin America, and Arajet surpassed 1 million passengers in the first half of 2026. Tech & Innovation: Dominicana Tech Week launched in Santo Domingo with 70+ events to boost AI, fintech, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Wildlife Crackdown: DR’s zoo is taking in confiscated exotic animals as seizures surge, with 188 seized last year versus 30 in 2023. Senate Health Tourism Bill: The Senate advanced a bill to create a council to promote and regulate health tourism. Sports Spotlight: Nono Pereira won gold in men’s shortboard surfing at Santo Domingo 2026.

Public Health: The Ministry of Public Health is keeping close watch after two mpox (monkeypox) cases were confirmed at a police station in San Cristóbal, with active epidemiological surveillance and renewed public attention on symptoms and transmission. Healthcare & Infrastructure: President Luis Abinader delivered the renovated and expanded Hacienda Estrella Municipal Hospital in Santo Domingo Norte, a RD$103.8M project that completes a 20+ year debt to the community and adds a new emergency area. Trade & Industry: The U.S. imposed a 12.5% tariff on Dominican agriculture and free zone exports under Section 301, with Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L. flagged by analysts as a key trigger. Business & Exports: TOPCIGARSHUB launched an international e-commerce platform to connect Dominican premium cigar producers with buyers in the U.S. and Europe. Sports (Santo Domingo 2026): Dominican judo closed the Central American Games with a mixed-team gold medal, while Venezuela’s Luis Álvarez won taekwondo gold (+87 kg) in Santo Domingo. Tourism: Three new all-inclusive resorts opened in Punta Cana under Lopesan’s Caoba Lagoon, Serenity Bay, and Splash Cove brands.