Senator Rafael B. Duluc (Cholitín) of La Altagracia province held a meeting with Eastern Zone business leaders. They discussed tax reforms and incentives for tourism.
The reforms’ impact on tourism was the main focus. Tourism is a significant part of the region’s economy, especially in La Altagracia, where Punta Cana, a key tourist spot, is located.
The Business Alliance of Developers and Builders presented a document during this meet. It expressed their concerns about the perils posed by the tax reform to the tourism industry.
“We believe the tax reform threatens the legal security and poses a severe risk to tourism project development and investment. It puts negatively affects the diversified tourist housing options and impacts the visitor profile of the Dominican Republic,” they stated in the document.
Senate President Ricardo de los Santosunderscored the dialogue’s importance. He recognized the need to ensure balanced and sustained development of the country’s tourism industry. The alliance represents 70% of local developers.
The meeting was led by Senator Ginette Bournigal, President of the Senate Tourism Commission. Other attendees included Senators Franklin Romero, María Mercedes Ortiz, Aneudy Ortiz, Rafael B. Duluc, Aracelis Villanueva, Augusto Velázquez, Antonio Marte, Omar Fernández, Bernardo Alemán, Santiago Zorrilla, and Edward Holy Spirit.
The leaders in the tourism industry see this meet as a historic moment. They believe it allows them to voice their concerns and contribute to discussions about the sector’s future.
Ernesto Veloz, the president of the Association of Hotels and Tourist Projects of the East (Asoleste), was among those present. He offered valuable input during the discussions.