Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. – By 2026, Punta Cana will boast a dedicated convention and exhibition center, designed to host trade fairs, business conferences, and international expositions, according to Aguie Lendor, Executive Vice President of the Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores).
The announcement reflects the growing success of the Asonahores Trade Show, an annual event that continues to expand both in size and prominence.
Strong Demand from Local and International Exhibitors
In its 2025 edition, the trade show gathered 145 companies and 116 stands, attracting exhibitors from across the Dominican Republic and abroad. However, demand exceeded capacity: 40 companies were left out due to space limitations, emphasizing the urgent need for expanded facilities.
Lendor mentioned that while an enlargement of the BlueMall venue in Punta Cana is currently being evaluated, future editions could also be hosted at a new convention center in Santo Domingo to respond to the sector’s fast-paced growth.
A Showcase of Global Tourism Partnerships
This year’s exhibitors included leading Dominican hotel groups from Puerto Plata, Santiago, Santo Domingo, Bayahíbe, La Romana, Juan Dolio, and Samaná, as well as international companies from Spain, Mexico, Italy, Costa Rica, and China.
According to Lendor, this global interest confirms that tourism is not only the Dominican Republic’s primary economic driver, but also a regional magnet for international investment and business networking.
“The growth of the trade show and the demand for participation highlight the importance of creating larger, modern facilities to meet market expectations. Punta Cana has the potential to become the premier destination for conventions and exhibitions in the Caribbean,” said Lendor.
Punta Cana: From Sun and Sand to Business and Conventions
With the new convention center set for 2026, Punta Cana will expand its reputation beyond leisure tourism, positioning itself as a major hub for the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) sector in the Caribbean.
This project not only reinforces the Dominican Republic’s role as a global tourism leader but also provides new opportunities for trade, investment, and business growth.
