Government presents ambitious regional development plan to transform the Dominican economy
President Luis Abinader, accompanied by the Minister of the Presidency, José Ignacio Paliza, unveiled the Government’s strategic vision for regional development. This comprehensive plan seeks to boost four fundamental hubs: Manzanillo, Punta Bergantín, Cabo Rojo, and Miches, through the execution of major infrastructure works, incentives for private investment, and the strengthening of technical training for job creation.
Manzanillo as an engine for the Northwest
The master plan for Manzanillo focuses on the transformation of the port as a key piece for the region’s productivity. With a current progress of 52.9% in its physical execution, it is projected that this infrastructure, which will have 242 meters of berthing, will be delivered in the first quarter of 2027.
In addition to port capacity, the Government is committed to energy diversity, projecting that this area will contribute more than 800 megawatts to the national electricity system. Complementarily, work is being done on the industrial ecosystem through the Navarrete Bypass, which is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, and the installation of a regional Infotep center to train the local workforce.
Socio-environmental development in Manzanillo includes the renovation of security infrastructure, land-use planning, and the creation of a cultural space dedicated to the banana industry, strengthening the community’s identity and environment.
Alofoke DeportesBoosting tourism in the North, South, and East
The tourism expansion strategy covers strategic points throughout the national geography:
- Punta Bergantín (Puerto Plata): It is emerging as a key hub to recover the splendor of the North coast, combining hotel projects, residential development, and private investment.
- Cabo Rojo (Pedernales): The project is advancing with the consolidation of its port, which estimates receiving 200,000 tourists by the end of 2026 and 350,000 in 2027. Minister Paliza confirmed that the first hotel, with 500 rooms, will be ready by February 2027, while three other hotel projects are in construction or negotiation phases.
- Miches (East): It is consolidating as a new high-value tourist destination, backed by significant investments in road infrastructure and basic services.
The Government emphasized that tourism growth must go hand in hand with the preparation of citizens. Therefore, technical training is a transversal axis in all these regions, ensuring that economic development translates into a better quality of life and real opportunities for the inhabitants of each area.
