Asonahores highlights potential for shopping tourism in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo.- Aguie Lendor, vice president of the Dominican Republic Hotel and Tourism Association (Asonahores), stated that the growing number of projects underway in Santo Domingo creates an opportunity to develop and strengthen shopping tourism in the capital.

Lendor said the city already has the conditions to position itself as a competitive shopping destination in the region, but emphasized the need to continue advancing initiatives that support this segment of the tourism industry.

He noted that one of the main challenges is the implementation of tax-free tourism, stressing the importance of securing approval from the relevant authorities to make the strategy viable. According to Lendor, such a measure would help attract more visitors and encourage Santo Domingo to emerge as a regional shopping hub.

The tourism leader also praised President Luis Abinader and Tourism Minister David Collado for their efforts to promote MICE tourism (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions), highlighting the near completion of the Santo Domingo Convention Center as a key infrastructure project for this segment.

Lendor added that although construction will take time, it is essential that the project meets the highest quality and safety standards to ensure its long-term success and competitiveness in the international events market.