Dominican Republic: between lights and shadows, the tourist boom and the challenges of a growing country

The Dominican Republic has experienced an unprecedented tourism boom amidst a contrasting regional landscape, where its neighbor, Haiti, is going through a deep crisis. With ten million tourists per year and a constantly growing economy, the country is currently in one of its best moments, with poverty decreasing and investment reaching historical levels. Even Hollywood star Vin Diesel plans to build a film studio in these paradisiacal lands. Dominican President Luis Abinader has attributed the country's success to its business-friendly governance style and stability, making it a magnet for investors and tourists. In the lead-up to the presidential elections, Abinader expresses confidence that his administration will be supported by the citizens next Sunday, emphasizing that the best is yet to come for the nation. As the elections approach, polls reflect that economic concerns, crime, and the situation in Haiti are key issues for voters. Despite the criticisms and challenges facing the Dominican Republic, Abinader leads the preferences in the polls, suggesting that he could secure a second term decisively. However, the economic stability and growth of the country have been accompanied by criticism over the increase in public debt and the perception of well-being not being reflected across the entire population. In contrast, the crisis in Haiti poses challenges for the Dominican Republic, especially in terms of border security and potential negative impacts on the neighboring country. Abinader's focus on tourism as an engine for economic development has generated both praise and criticism within the Dominican population. While he has promoted major tourism infrastructure projects, such as Punta Bergantín, which promise to create thousands of jobs and attract investments, some sectors warn about the impact on housing prices and gentrification in tourist areas. Punta Bergantín, an ambitious project aiming to boost an ecological tourist complex, will include a film center led by Vin Diesel and a technological innovation center called "Silicon Beach." Despite the promises and expectations, some residents like Juan Ureña express skepticism about the realization of these projects and question if they will truly materialize in tangible benefits for the community. Amidst this scenario of optimism and skepticism, the Dominican Republic is gearing up for a new chapter in its political and economic history. While Abinader seeks to consolidate his leadership and continue his development policies, the country faces internal and external challenges that will shape its path in the coming years. With a tourism boom underway and a rising economy, the future of the Dominican Republic is seen amidst lights and shadows, promises and challenges that will define its course in the Caribbean region.