SANTO DOMINGO. The international tourism community is celebrating a historic milestone following the Dominican Republic’s participation in the FITUR 2026 trade fair in Madrid. Encarna Piñero, President of INVEROTEL—the prestigious association representing the 16 Spanish families with major hotel holdings in the Dominican Republic and Mexico—has formally extended her congratulations to the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, for the country’s extraordinary performance.
Piñero, who also serves as the CEO of the Piñero Group, witnessed firsthand the strategic efforts led by Minister Collado and his team. She described the work as a “strategic vision” that is effectively raising the bar for the entire Caribbean tourism sector.
A Model for Public-Private Collaboration
In a statement shared via her social media platforms, the INVEROTEL president highlighted that the success seen in Madrid is the result of a robust public-private alliance. This collaboration has not only guaranteed industry growth but has also become a “model to follow” for neighboring destinations in the region.
“We are seeing how this drive to diversify and reduce seasonality—supported by gastronomy, culture, natural spaces, and sports tourism—is transforming the destination,” Piñero noted. She emphasized that the synergy between the government and private investors is the key to ensuring that tourism translates into tangible well-being for Dominican citizens.
The Dominican Stand: A Reflection of Leadership
One of the most talked-about aspects of the fair was the Dominican Republic’s pavilion. Piñero praised the stand for its ability to capture global attention, calling it a “true reflection of a country consolidating itself as the great tourist reference in the Caribbean.”
Beyond the visual appeal, the CEO of the Piñero Group pointed to the “Dominican hospitality, smiles, and warmth” that greeted international delegates, reinforcing the country’s brand as a welcoming and world-class destination.
Record-Breaking Figures: US$13.3 Billion in Negotiations
The praise from INVEROTEL comes on the heels of staggering financial results. The Dominican Republic closed its participation at FITUR 2026 with negotiations totaling more than US$13.37 billion (approximately RD$885.68 billion).
These figures reaffirm the country’s undisputed leadership in the region and signal a massive wave of upcoming investment that will continue to fuel the development of new hotel projects and infrastructure, particularly in the eastern region and Punta Cana.
Why This Matters for the Future of Tourism
The endorsement from INVEROTEL is significant because it represents the voices of the largest investors in the country’s hotel infrastructure. By congratulating David Collado, the association confirms its confidence in the Dominican Republic’s legal security, economic stability, and promotional strategy.
As the industry moves forward, the focus remains on high-level tournaments, cultural integration, and sustainable growth—ensuring that the Dominican Republic remains the “jewel of the Caribbean” for years to come.
