Gastronomic growth: Opening of new restaurants in the Dominican Republic outpaces closures
The dynamism of the tourism sector in the Dominican Republic continues to yield positive figures for the national economy. Juan Bancalari, president of the Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (Asonahores), revealed that the country is experiencing sustained growth in its culinary offerings, significantly outpacing the closure rate of establishments.
During the opening of the XXXVIII Asonahores 2026 Trade Fair, held at BlueMall Punta Cana, Bancalari detailed that the opening of new restaurants is 2.5 times greater than the number of establishments ceasing operations. The statistics presented indicate a 14.9% growth in new gastronomic businesses, compared to 5.8% of establishments closing their doors.
We have 2.5 times more new restaurant openings. This behavior is a direct reflection of the development and strength of tourism in our country, where gastronomy has consolidated itself as a fundamental pillar of our tourism offering.
Juan Bancalari, president of Asonahores
Impact on the local economy
The impact of tourism in the Dominican Republic transcends lodging, becoming an engine that energizes the national productive chain. According to data presented by the head of Asonahores, the tourism industry demands local goods and services valued at over 200 billion pesos annually.
This economic flow involves diverse sectors, among which the following stand out:
- Food and beverages
- Insurance
- Furniture
- Manufacturing
- Specialized services
Bancalari cited the case of Santo Domingo as an example, where 68 new restaurants have emerged in the last year, highlighting the ample investment and growth opportunities offered by the Dominican gastronomic market.
XXXVIII Asonahores Trade Fair 2026
The XXXVIII Asonahores Trade Fair 2026, held from September 2 to 4, has established itself as the premier stage for connecting suppliers and buyers in the tourism industry. With the participation of more than 300 booths, the event fosters commercial exchange and the strengthening of relationships between the various productive sectors of the country.
This meeting reaffirms the strategic importance of tourism as a central pillar of the Dominican economy, promoting spaces where new business opportunities are generated that benefit the entire value chain.
