Sustainability

Sustainable Investment in the Dominican Republic: Driving Economic Development in the Caribbean

The Dominican Republic has emerged as a regional leader in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) within Central America and the Caribbean. Over the years, it has become a magnet for major projects across critical sectors, notably tourism, energy, and infrastructure. By 2024, the country recorded an unprecedented US$4.512 billion in FDI—the highest level in its history. This milestone represents a 49% increase compared to 2019 and a 3% growth on the previous year, marking the third consecutive year in which FDI inflows have surpassed the US$4 billion threshold.

This consistent upward trend highlights the Dominican Republic’s strengthening reputation as a reliable and attractive destination for international capital, supported by an evolving regulatory framework and robust institutional structures.

Streamlining Investment: ProDominicana and the One-Stop Investment Window

Much of this success can be attributed to the efforts of the Dominican Republic Export and Investment Center (ProDominicana), which has taken a proactive role in enhancing the country’s investment climate. One of its flagship initiatives, the One-Stop Investment Window (VUIRD), integrates over 37 processes across 25 institutions. The platform provides a streamlined and transparent process for investors navigating key sectors of the Dominican economy. This digital service facilitates faster approvals and better coordination between stakeholders, simplifying access for international and domestic investors alike.

“The institution has driven economic diversification by facilitating trade partnerships and connecting Dominican enterprises with global markets.”

ProDominicana’s efforts have gone beyond administrative efficiency. The institution has driven economic diversification by facilitating trade partnerships and connecting Dominican enterprises with global markets. Its role in promoting investment in high-potential sectors has been central to maintaining the country’s positive investment trajectory.

Renewable Energy: Powering a Green Transition

Executive Director: Biviana Riveiro Disla

The Dominican Republic has demonstrated a firm commitment to renewable energy, aiming for clean sources to constitute 15% of its energy mix, with a longer-term target of 30% by 2030. The government’s proactive policies have spurred foreign and domestic investment in solar and wind energy projects across the country. This push towards renewables not only supports the global transition to green energy but also enhances the country’s energy security and sustainability credentials.

Sustainable Tourism: Balancing Growth and Conservation

Tourism remains one of the Dominican Republic’s most important economic sectors, and its approach to sustainable tourism has attracted attention regionally and beyond. Developments in Punta Cana and Pedernales exemplify a model where economic growth is balanced with environmental preservation and social responsibility. These projects aim to protect biodiversity, reduce carbon footprints, and provide sustainable livelihoods for local communities, ensuring long-term benefits for both residents and visitors.

Responsible Mining: Ensuring Economic and Environmental Sustainability

The mining sector, traditionally a sensitive area for sustainable development, has also seen reform. The government continues to prioritise responsible and transparent mining practices. Through the enforcement of strict regulations and sustainability standards, mining activities are carried out in a manner that ensures direct socio-economic benefits to local communities while safeguarding the nation’s natural resources.

Supporting SMEs: Driving Local Economic Growth

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) remain central to the Dominican Republic’s economic strategy. ProDominicana has implemented various tools and resources to help SMEs scale their operations, expand into foreign markets, and contribute to employment and foreign exchange generation. By integrating SMEs into global value chains and promoting their competitiveness, the government is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and resilient economy.

Promoting Green Investments: A Commitment to Sustainability

The country’s emphasis on green investments has attracted projects aligned with global sustainability goals. Green infrastructure, clean technology financing, and climate-resilient development initiatives are being prioritised. This forward-looking approach positions the Dominican Republic as a regional pioneer in sustainable investment and underscores its commitment to combating climate change.

International Recognition: Awards and Accolades

The Dominican Republic’s efforts in promoting trade and investment have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, ProDominicana received the “Best Use of Information Technology” award at the World Trade Promotion Organizations Awards, hosted by the International Trade Center (ITC). The award recognised the innovative market intelligence system ProInteligencia, which has played a pivotal role in supporting the country’s trade promotion strategies.

In addition, ProDominicana was named one of the best investment promotion agencies in Latin America and the Caribbean at the 2024 AIM Investment Awards, part of the AIM Congress Global Annual Meeting. This gathering brought together over 1,000 participants from across the globe, solidifying ProDominicana’s reputation as a leader in investment facilitation.

A Sustainable Future for the Caribbean

With a focus on sustainability, economic diversification, and support for SMEs, the Dominican Republic continues to set a benchmark for responsible economic development in the Caribbean. Its proactive approach to attracting sustainable investment is generating long-term opportunities for growth while reinforcing its role as a regional leader committed to balancing economic progress with environmental stewardship.

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