SANTO DOMINGO. – The Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association, Asonahores, emphasized the need for the Dominican Republic to maintain the current legal structure of the sector in order to guarantee the continued sustained growth of tourism.
David Llibre, speaking yesterday at the traditional press conference of the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) where the sector's figures are presented, stated that the growth in visitor arrivals strengthens the country's economy, boosting practically all productive activities.
The businessman indicated that the latest study on the impact of tourism on MSMEs registered 17,000 productive units throughout the national territory whose activities are directly or indirectly linked to tourism.
“In the Dominican Republic, tourism is responsible for impacting different sectors of the economy by up to 40% of its production and is responsible for 10% of tax revenues with a collection of 155 billion pesos in taxes paid directly and indirectly,” explained Llibre.
He emphasized that modifying, reducing, or eliminating the current legislative structure of the sector could reverse foreign investment in the country, negatively impact the entire national productive apparatus, and consequently affect the contribution to the Gross Domestic Product, tax revenue, and job creation.
“There is great potential for growth in different tourist destinations in the country, such as Pedernales, Miches, and Bergantín, which need the current legislative structure for their development and growth,” Llibre stated.
Asonahores reiterated its commitment to continue working and further strengthening coordination and collaboration between the Government and the private sector in tourism.
Cover photo: David Llibre, president of Asonahores. (External source).
