Dominican Republic tackles sargassum crisis with responsibility and transparency

Santo Domingo.- Tourism Minister David Collado emphasized that the Dominican Republic is confronting the sargassum crisis with responsibility and transparency, while advocating for a global and scientific solution to the seaweed invasion affecting Caribbean coasts.

Collado explained that the country inherited a public-private agreement in 2020 for a US$12 million response plan, with the State fulfilling its US$6 million pledge. However, the private sector has yet to contribute its share. Citing the lack of proven technology, he stressed the government’s refusal to invest public funds in unverified solutions. “There is no definitive fix to sargassum yet,” he said.

The current approach relies on manual cleanups and partnerships with international agencies. One such initiative involves the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which will soon fund three pilot projects—including one in the Dominican Republic—with a total of US$3 million in non-reimbursable aid.

Collado reaffirmed that while the country didn’t create the problem, it is committed to being part of the regional solution. He also highlighted the Dominican Republic’s tourism achievements, citing top global rankings and continued investments from major hotel brands like Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton.

He concluded by assuring that public funds will only be used with clear accountability and that the nation remains dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and preserving its tourism leadership in the region.