Juan Bancalari, president of Asonahores , the Dominican Republic's Hotel and Tourism Association, emphasized that the fair organized by the association is not only a showcase of products, but also a demonstration of how tourism energizes sectors such as agriculture, industry, technology, construction, and logistics.
He highlighted that in 2022 alone, the hotel industry spent over 139 billion pesos in the local market , generating thousands of productive linkages . He added that over 155 billion pesos in tax revenue comes from tourism . “One out of every ten pesos of tax revenue originates in this industry,” Bancalari stated.
He highlighted the foreign direct investment : $4.39 billion in 2023 and $4.512 billion in 2024, driven largely by tourism .
Asonahores inaugurated its 37th Trade Exhibition this Wednesday, reaffirming tourism as an economic engine and strategic pillar of national development .
The trade show, considered the most influential in the tourism value chain in the country and the Caribbean, was led by the Minister of Tourism , David Collado, who highlighted that this platform reflects the strength and future vision of the sector.
“We will continue to support this industry that generates jobs , drives development and is a source of national pride,” he said.
Collado emphasized that the country has consolidated its position as a regional leader thanks to the combined efforts of stakeholders in the sector. “Our challenge is to continue innovating and diversifying our offerings, always with sustainability and quality in mind,” he stated.
The fair, held at BlueMall Puntacana , occupies more than 4,000 square meters and brings together more than 300 stands and 140 exhibiting companies .
The 2025 edition includes panels on sustainability , labor practices , and land-use planning.
“Every supplier, partner and entrepreneur present here reaffirms that tourism multiplies opportunities, generates jobs and creates shared wealth ,” said Aguie Lendor, executive vice president of Asonahores .
