Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. – The 2025 Commercial Exhibition of the Dominican Republic Hotels and Tourism Association (Asonahores) concluded with resounding success, gathering 145 companies, 316 stands and 3,356 visitors between September 10 and 12 in Punta Cana — and this figure does not include the final day of the event.
Strong Growth and New Partnerships
This year, 40% of the participating companies were newcomers, underscoring the capacity of the Dominican tourism industry to attract fresh investments, diversify markets, and strengthen local supply chains. The platform welcomed suppliers, artisans, entrepreneurs, and SMEs, many of whom are now part of the national tourism value network.
“Asonahores’ Commercial Exhibition proves once again that tourism is far more than hotels and beaches; it is the engine that connects the entire Dominican economy,” said Aguie Lendor, Executive Vice President of Asonahores, highlighting the synergy between international manufacturers, local suppliers, artisans, and entrepreneurs from the Supérate program.
The event also drew more than 40 sponsors and featured participation from Spain, Mexico, Italy, a Costa Rican trade mission, and manufacturers from China, solidifying its role as a regional hub for commerce and investment.
Innovation and Sustainability
The 37th edition of the fair incorporated notable innovations:
- Elimination of printed materials
- Reduction of plastics
- Access to event information through QR codes
- A fully digital platform with Wi-Fi connectivity across the venue
All spaces were sold out months ahead of schedule, leaving more than 30 companies on a waiting list, proof of the confidence the private sector places in this annual business summit.
Strategic Agreement with the United Nations
During the closing ceremony, Asonahores and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism model in the Dominican Republic.
The agreement, signed by Aguie Lendor (Asonahores) and Ana María Díaz (UNDP), establishes a framework for action that includes:
- Waste, water, and energy management for sustainable practices
- Social cohesion and inclusive employment opportunities
- Promotion of the Inclusive Tourism Seal and Gender Equality Seal for Businesses (Igualando RD)
- Gender equality certification through NORDOM 775
- Safety audits and protocols for women in tourist spaces
- Promotion of emerging markets such as digital nomads and senior travelers
Asonahores’ Social Responsibility Projects
Asonahores also presented its ongoing corporate social responsibility programs, which contribute to community development across the Dominican Republic:
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CEDI Mujer: A comprehensive program supporting vulnerable women with vocational training, legal and psychological counseling, and specialized education in food and beverage services (580 hours total), aimed at increasing formal employment opportunities in the hotel sector.
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Campo Conecta (FAO Partnership): A pioneering initiative that connects local farmers directly with hotels and restaurants, enabling access to fresh, high-quality produce without intermediaries while strengthening national food security and rural income generation.
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Labor Inclusion Program: A 12-week training and internship plan to integrate young people with disabilities into roles such as waiters, bar assistants, and restaurant hosts, followed by ongoing mentorship for sustainable employment.
Punta Cana: A Hub for Sustainable Tourism Growth
The Asonahores Commercial Exhibition 2025 reaffirmed its position as the most important tourism trade fair in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean, generating opportunities across sectors while promoting sustainability, inclusion, and investment confidence.
