Asonahores opposes waste law reform over risks to tourism

Santo Domingo.- The Association of Hotels and Tourism (Asonahores) has rejected the recent approval of amendments to Law 225-20 on solid waste management by the Chamber of Deputies, citing a lack of technical analysis and warning of serious consequences for environmental sustainability, tourism competitiveness, and municipal autonomy.

Asonahores argues that the bill promotes monopolistic practices, weakens waste governance, threatens international sustainability certifications, and disrupts public-private collaboration. The group also criticized the law’s failure to classify sargassum as waste, despite its major impact on coastal tourism, leaving the sector without proper disposal solutions.

Additionally, Asonahores called the proposed business contributions to waste management disproportionate and unfair, suggesting that fees should be based on actual waste generated. The association urged lawmakers to pursue open and inclusive dialogue to develop balanced, sustainable legislation that supports fair competition and responsible waste management.