AGP Executive Report

Jones Act Waiver Impact: A Trump-era waiver is keeping U.S. shipping lanes busy, with foreign vessels moving tens of millions of barrels between American ports—renewing calls to scrap the Jones Act. America 250 Tall Ships: The July 4 celebration in New York drew 48 tall ships from 20 countries, including the Dominican Republic, with major flyovers and fireworks over the Hudson and East River. Local Courts — Jet Set Case: A judge recused herself from the Jet Set entertainment center case in Santo Domingo due to a personal connection, sending the merits trial to the Fourth Criminal Chamber. Public Safety — Herrera Police Reform: PRM deputy Eugenio Cedeño demanded a “purge” of the National Police after the death of a young man during an operation in Herrera, urging mental health screening for officers. Violence Investigation: A woman in Santo Domingo was found dead with blunt-force trauma; her partner was arrested after police said he stayed beside the body. Transport Rules: Intrant warned there’s been no approved fare increase for public passenger transport and urged commuters to report illegal charges. Tourism & Travel: Aerodom said it’s doing preventive maintenance on baggage conveyor belts at AILA after a viral video raised concerns. Humanitarian — Venezuela Repatriation: The DR repatriated 62 more people from Venezuela after the earthquakes, bringing the total to 171 under Operation Quisqueya Solidaria 2026. Sports — FIBA Qualifiers: Rosters were confirmed for July 6 Americas Qualifiers, with the Dominican Republic set to face Nicaragua.

Extreme Heat Alert: Santo Domingo faces hot, humid conditions with afternoon downpours and isolated thunderstorms, while Indomet and NOAA warn the “extreme heat” pattern could last into mid-July, raising risks of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Euro Watch: The Central Bank set the euro at RD$67.40 (buy) and RD$69.47 (sell) for Monday, July 6, showing a strong shift versus 2025. Tourism Boom: The DR hit 6.6 million visitors in the first half of 2026 (+7.7% vs. 2025), with air and cruise arrivals both climbing, putting 12 million within reach. Humanitarian Aid to Venezuela: Arajet flew medical aid and a mobile hospital to Venezuela after the earthquake, coordinated with DR ministries and supported by donated cargo services. Local Economy & Inclusion: MICM and Equifax Dominicana signed an agreement to expand financial inclusion and formalization for MSMEs. Water Access Gap: A new ENHOGAR-MICS report says only 68% of rural households have safe drinking water, versus 92% in urban areas. Sports & World Cup: The DR basketball team hosts Nicaragua in World Cup qualifying, and Portugal-Spain plus USA-Belgium headline the World Cup round of 16.

Tourism Boom: The Dominican Republic hit a record first half, welcoming 6,616,671 visitors from January to June (+7.7% vs. 2025; +11% vs. 2024), with 4,963,542 stayover arrivals by air and 1,653,129 cruise passengers—keeping the country on track to chase 12 million for the year. Extreme Heat Watch: NOAA and INDOMET warn the “extremely severe” heat will linger through at least July 14, with temperatures and heat index pushing health risks; officials urge hydration, light clothing, sunscreen, and avoiding direct sun 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Rural Water Gap: ENHOGAR-MICS 2025 finds only 68% of rural households have safe drinking water (92% in urban areas), tied to higher gastrointestinal illness risk. Finance for MSMEs: MICM and Equifax Dominicana signed an agreement to expand financial inclusion and credit access for micro, small, and medium-sized businesses. Judicial Delays: The Public Defense Office says coercion hearings in the Judicial City are being postponed because defendants aren’t being transported, violating the 48-hour constitutional deadline. Sports & National Pride: The DR men’s basketball team hosts Nicaragua in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers, while softball’s XXI Chata Tournament 2026 kicks off in Santo Domingo Este.

Humanitarian Response: Vice President Raquel Peña welcomed Dominican rescuers returning from Venezuela after the June 24 earthquake, praising their work and reaffirming DR’s support as a medical commission and field hospital were installed. Public Health & Safety: The Ministry of Public Health said the Arajet humanitarian mission also includes mental health specialists for psychological and psychiatric support. Extreme Heat Alert: Indomet warned that intense heat will persist, with temperatures up to 39°C and higher heat index values, as NOAA keeps the country at its “Extremely Severe” extreme-heat risk level. Tourism Numbers: The Dominican Republic reported record growth with 6.6 million visitors in January–June 2026 (+7.7%), including 1.65 million cruise passengers. Sports Spotlight: Juan Soto was named the Mets’ lone All-Star starter for July 14 in Philadelphia, while Ethan Salas was selected for the MLB Futures Game in Philly. Local Justice & Protests: In Herrera’s Guajimía, residents protested the death of 18-year-old Darlin Mercado during a police operation; the officer involved was placed at the Public Ministry’s disposal as investigations continue.

Extreme Heat Watch: Indomet warns temperatures could hit 35–39°C (heat index higher) across the northwest, north and southwest, with NOAA placing the DR at its “Extremely Severe” extreme-heat alert level—especially risky for kids, seniors and people with chronic illness. Tourism Boom: The Dominican Republic logged a record 6.6 million visitors in the first half of 2026 (+7.7% year-on-year), with June alone bringing 975,012 tourists and cruise arrivals up as ports like Amber Cove and Taino Bay keep growing. Venezuela Solidarity: Arajet carried humanitarian medical aid to earthquake-hit Venezuela, while Acting President Delcy Rodríguez honored international rescuers and rescue dogs with “Hero of Venezuela” medals. Police Accountability in Herrera: Protests erupted in Guajimía, Herrera after Darlin Mercado’s death during a police operation; the National Police says the officer is under Public Ministry investigation and condemns alleged excessive force. Sports Spotlight: Mike James starred as the U.S. beat the Dominican Republic 82-81 in FIBA World Cup qualifying, while Puerto Plata hosts a WBC title bout featuring Dominican boxer Yermi Peralta Jimenez. Culture & Fashion: Santo Domingo’s Fashion Freak Fest returns with “Maison Caribe,” spotlighting Caribbean identity through 20 designers and runway shows.

National Identity & Food Culture: A new look at “La Bandera,” the Dominican daily staple of rice, beans and meat, traces how Spanish, African and Taino influences shaped a meal that shows up in homes and comedores across the country. Public Safety & Justice: Interior and Police Minister Faride Raful condemned the killing of 16-year-old Darlin Mercado Reyes in Herrera, calling it “unforgivable police abuse,” while protests erupted in Santo Domingo Oeste after the death during a police intervention. Sports—Basketball: The Dominican Republic fell 82-81 to the United States in the 2027 World Cup qualifiers but still advanced, led by Andrés Feliz’s 24 points, six rebounds and six assists. Sports—Events & Planning: President Abinader met FIBA leaders and local organizers for Santo Domingo 2026, signaling readiness for international standards. Economy—Energy Costs: The government lowered fuel prices for July 4–10, supported by a RD$424.53 million subsidy to ease costs for consumers. Health—Extreme Heat: The Health Ministry warned of heat stroke risks as temperatures and heat indexes push above 40°C in parts of the country. Science—Earth Activity: The National Seismological Center recorded six low-magnitude tremors across the Dominican Republic, with no reported damage. Culture & Tourism: Fashion Freak Fest 2026 returns with “Maison Caribe,” spotlighting Caribbean identity through designers and events in Santo Domingo.

Fuel Relief: Dominican authorities cut fuel prices for July 4–10, lowering regular gasoline and diesel by RD$5 per gallon and premium fuels by RD$3, backed by a RD$424.53 million subsidy. Heat Safety: The Health Ministry warns extreme heat is pushing heat indexes above 40°C in places, urging hydration, avoiding sun 11 a.m.–3 p.m., and treating heat stroke as an emergency. Public Health: The CDC is investigating a spreading parasite causing watery diarrhea (cyclosporiasis), with Michigan reporting a surge in cases. Regional Tech & Democracy: CARICOM calls for stronger regional cooperation on AI to curb disinformation and protect democratic freedoms. Aviation & Tourism: Neos Airlines reactivated the Rome–Holguín route, landing with 238 passengers and aiming to strengthen eastern Cuba connectivity. Community & Crime: Police dismantled an illicit alcohol operation in Azua, destroying about 25,440 liters of adulterated liquor in tanks. Education Leadership: Maribel Lorenzo was elected dean of UASD’s Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences for 2026–2030. Sports: FIBA Americas Qualifiers rosters were confirmed, with the Dominican Republic set to face the U.S. in Window 3.

Disaster Response & Diplomacy: Acting President Delcy Rodríguez thanked 147 countries for solidarity after Venezuela’s June 24 earthquakes, including help from the Dominican Republic and the U.S., as international rescue efforts continue. Security & Justice: The Public Prosecutor’s Office arrested a woman accused of kidnapping her husband during a dispute tied to a construction company in Santo Domingo Este, alleging she helped sedate and transport him. Public Safety Reform: National Police met with community leaders in the Colonial Zone to present progress on a new police service model aimed at rebuilding trust. Economy & Taxes: A new 0.20% tax on checks and certain electronic transfers kicks in July 3 under Law 30-26, with exemptions for same-owner transfers and some government/social payments. Investment & Governance: Vice President Raquel Peña highlighted DR’s legal certainty and stability at the Americas Investment Forum 2026, citing record foreign investment figures. Infrastructure & Emergencies: President Abinader inaugurated the new CEMED emergency headquarters and delivered new rescue equipment to boost disaster readiness. Tech & Daily Life: Altice Dominicana reported ongoing work to restore mobile services after a massive outage linked to an electrical problem. Sports & Culture: Dominican eFIBA World Finals Qatar Season 4 begins in Doha with the DR among the eight teams; Rafael Soriano was elected to the Dominican Sports Hall of Fame.

Tourism Surge: The Dominican Republic hit a record 6,616,671 visitors in the first half of 2026, up 7.7% year-on-year, with June alone bringing 975,012 travelers, according to Tourism Minister David Collado. Extreme Heat Alert: NOAA placed the country at the highest risk level for extreme heat (July 1–7), with Indomet reporting 39.9°C in Santiago Rodríguez and officials urging hydration and limiting time in the sun. Disaster Readiness: President Luis Abinader inaugurated the new CEMED emergency headquarters and delivered new response equipment, including drones and specialized rescue tools, to boost disaster coordination. Telecom Disruption: Altice Dominicana said it’s still working to restore mobile service after a major outage tied to an electrical problem in its equipment. Bayahibe Recovery: Viva Dominicus Beach by Wyndham reopened 200 rooms after a June 19 fire, with officials aiming to restore nearly all rooms within 60 days. Local Economy & Jobs: COPYMECON warned inflation is crushing construction MSMEs by driving up materials, labor, and financing costs. Sports—DR on the Global Stage: The DR is set to play Qatar in the eFIBA World Finals in Doha (July 3–4), and MLB prospect Jesús Made (from the DR) was named to the Futures Game.

Immigration Crackdown: ICE has reportedly detained 10,000+ people in just five days, with officials told to push 2,000 arrests a day as 80% of officers focus on “arrest operations,” raising fears of more detentions without criminal convictions. Gender Violence Alarm: Intimate femicides jumped 74% in the first half of 2026 (47 cases vs. 27 in 2025), with calls for stronger state protection for minors left orphaned. New Penal Code Warning: A judge says the upcoming Penal Code (effective Aug. 3) could mean longer sentences for traffic accidents, as debate grows over press freedom and defamation penalties. Local Environment Fight: La Cuaba residents marched to the Presidential Palace to demand revocation of permits for a major private landfill project they say threatens biodiversity and ecotourism. Earthquake Preparedness: INTEC’s seismic network urges urgent microzoning and strict building compliance, offering help for Santiago, Santo Domingo, and Punta Cana. Venezuela Solidarity: Dominican authorities sent another humanitarian shipment to Venezuela via Rio Haina, as the quake death toll climbs and rescue efforts continue. Sports & Games Build-Up: Team DR adds Feliz, Montero and Duarte for a key FIBA qualifier vs. the USA, while the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Center nears completion for Santo Domingo 2026. Heat Alert: Indomet warns of extreme temperatures up to 40°C, with heat index risks reaching 46°C.

Humanitarian Aid to Venezuela: The Dominican Republic sent a new sea shipment under Operation Quisqueya Solidaria 2026, with food, drinking water, hydration products, medicines and other essentials departing from Rio Haina to support quake-affected communities. Heat Alert: The Dominican Institute of Meteorology says extreme temperatures are persisting nationwide, with highs up to 40°C and heat index risks reaching 46°C in some areas, as El Niño and Saharan dust intensify summer conditions. Extreme Heat Warning: NOAA issued its highest-risk “Extremely Severe” heat advisory for 1–7 July, placing Hispaniola in the top danger level and urging public health precautions. Climate Risk Protection: The DR became the first country in Latin America and the Caribbean to roll out parametric insurance in its adaptive social protection system, with rapid payouts for climate-vulnerable Supérate households triggered by verified rainfall/wind data. Local Economy & Payments: Transport leaders warned against removing card terminals at fuel stations, saying cash-only would raise robbery risks and urged talks to balance fees with keeping electronic payments. Investment Push: The DR will host the Americas Investment Forum 2026 in Santo Domingo, with Abinader and international partners set to spotlight investment opportunities across key sectors. Aviation & Safety: FL Technics received IDAC certification to start certified aircraft maintenance operations in Punta Cana. Diplomatic Spotlight: The Diplomatic Corps reaffirmed ties with the DR at a luncheon with President Abinader, emphasizing cooperation on development and migration. Sports & Culture: Casa de Campo named new food, culinary and Altos de Chavón leadership; and the DR’s University of Holguin took part in an international higher-education congress in the country.

Venezuela Earthquake Aid: A Dominican medical contingent, backed by the WHO, arrived in Venezuela to treat victims of the June 24 double earthquake, with plans to operate in phases and bring supplies plus search-and-rescue technology. Humanitarian Shipments: Panama and the Dominican Republic also sent new humanitarian donations to Venezuela, joining a growing list of countries providing support. Local Justice Update: Santo Domingo’s Public Prosecutor’s Office asked a court to reject a bid to return a key phone in the Intrant corruption case; the judge reserved the ruling for July 23. Diplomatic Move: President Abinader appointed Federico Cuello as ambassador on special mission to the OECD, coordinating the DR’s accession process. Culture & Education Alliance: UNAPEC, the René del Risco Bermúdez Foundation and Mar de Palabras signed a framework agreement to expand cultural and educational projects, including literature and arts. Security & Courts: A 60-year-old man was remanded after pleading not guilty in an alleged cocaine trafficking case tied to his Naxxar residence. Digital Governance: A new regional report maps digital platform regulation gaps across the Dominican Republic and neighbors, flagging risks like disinformation and online violence. Sports in DR: Inter Miami’s T&T youth goalkeeper Levi Williams starred as the club’s academy won the MICFootball Punta Cana title, with Thiago Messi featuring in the Under-14 squad. Tourism/Travel: JetBlue will start daily Fort Lauderdale–St. Maarten flights on July 9, boosting Caribbean connectivity.

Venezuela Earthquake Aid: Dominican rescuers and humanitarian flights are moving into Venezuela as the quake death toll climbs and families keep searching the rubble, with new rescues reported in La Guaira. Climate Policy: The Dominican Republic unveiled NDC 3.0, raising emissions-cut goals to 28% by 2030 and 32% by 2035, alongside 41 adaptation measures and a projected US$23.7B investment need. Connectivity Push: Indotel approved Swordfish Infrastructure to enable Google’s subsea cable project, aiming to boost regional digital connectivity. Tourism & Sports: Cap Cana is doubling down on sports tourism with major international events, while Emilio Estefan praised Miches at a tourism push led by Minister David Collado. Urban Growth Watch: Santo Domingo East is approving much taller buildings up to 50 stories, sparking concerns about infrastructure keeping up. Health & HIV: Health authorities launched a national dialogue to fund and sustain the HIV response plan for 2026-2030. Local Community: COOPNAMA marked Teachers’ Day with a raffle awarding two apartments and two vehicles to members.

Sargassum Plan: The Dominican Republic set aside US$9 million to fight beach sargassum, but only after finding a long-term way to collect it at sea—Tourism Minister David Collado said simply cleaning shorelines won’t solve the problem. Games Access: For Santo Domingo 2026, organizers say about 85% of sports events will be free to the public, with the rest requiring online tickets and clear access categories. Cruise Boost: The Dominican cruise push got a boost as Tourism Minister David Collado received an FCCA leadership award, while Carnival’s Celebration Key expansion (in the Bahamas) signals continued regional demand for Caribbean cruise capacity. Venezuela Aid: A shipment of essential supplies from the Dominican Republic arrived in Venezuela to support earthquake victims, with Venezuelan officials thanking Santo Domingo for the solidarity. Law 30-26 Impact: DGII began rolling enforcement of Law 30-26, including a US$30 departure fee (up from US$20) collected at ticket purchase for all exits via Dominican airports and terminals. Local Sports Spotlight: Thiago Messi won at MICFootball Punta Cana 2026, adding another international youth title to his development with Inter Miami CF Academy.

Venezuela Earthquake Response: The Dominican Republic is stepping up help after the June 24 twin quakes, sending a new search-and-rescue contingent and medical supplies under Operation Quisqueya Solidaria 2026, while the Foreign Affairs ministry also arranged a humanitarian flight to repatriate Dominicans affected by the disaster. Energy Diplomacy: Guyana has given the Dominican Republic six months to start oil and gas exploration in the Berbice onshore block, with Refidomsa set to hold a 10% stake and get preferential access if reserves are found. Local Security: Authorities in Santo Domingo Oeste seized 421 marijuana plants in La Cuaba, detaining one person for questioning as investigators continue the probe. Economy & Finance: The Central Bank says the Dominican economy grew 4.7% year-on-year in May, and CABEI approved the Dominican Republic as a Series A shareholder, expanding financing capacity. Infrastructure & Mobility: Digesett is moving to ease congestion on the Malecón with a new evening counterflow lane, as electricity czar Marranzini warns the system is overloaded amid complaints. Tourism & Sports: Cruise growth was highlighted at the PAMAC Destination Summit in Puerto Plata, and Marileidy Paulino set a new Diamond League women’s 400m record with 48.48 in Paris.

Digital Sports: FIBA and the eFIBA World Finals Qatar Season 4 team confirmed the event will run July 3-4 at Mall of Qatar, with eight national teams split into two groups (including the Dominican Republic) and a $50,000 prize pool. Volleyball: Capital1 Solar Spikers tested itself against the Dominican Republic national team in a friendly ahead of the new PVL season, with the Dominican side praised as a tough benchmark. Local Sports (International): Jarrod Uthoff was named to the USA men’s World Cup qualifying roster, with the team set to play in Santo Domingo on July 3. Environment & Tourism: A new INTEC study says 88% of sand on eight major Dominican beaches comes from marine organism remains, warning that ecosystem damage could disrupt natural sand production. Disaster Response (Regional): UN-coordinated rescue teams continue searching in Venezuela after twin earthquakes, with the Dominican Republic listed among participating countries.