Dominican Senate approves US$600 million for climate action and Punta Cana water infrastructure

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic Senate has approved two financing agreements totaling US$600 million to strengthen climate resilience and expand critical water and sanitation infrastructure in the country’s fastest-growing tourism region, Punta Cana-Bávaro.

The first loan, valued at US$200 million, will be provided by the Andean Development Corporation (CAF) and will serve as budgetary support for government initiatives aimed at enhancing climate action policies and improving the country’s ability to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

A second financing agreement worth US$400 million was approved for the National Institute of Drinking Water and Sewerage (INAPA). The funds, provided by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), will finance the third phase of the Punta Cana-Bávaro Sanitation and Wastewater Reuse Program in La Altagracia province.

According to the agreement, the project seeks to improve public health, protect the region’s aquifer system, and expand access to safe drinking water in eastern Dominican Republic. The initiative is also expected to support the long-term sustainability of Punta Cana, one of the Caribbean’s leading tourism destinations.

The investment comes as the Dominican Republic continues to prioritize infrastructure modernization and environmental sustainability to accommodate growing tourism demand and population growth in the eastern region.

Following Senate approval, both financing agreements will be sent to President Luis Abinader and the Executive Branch for final review and enactment.