Omar Fernández accuses government of implementing a “covert tax reform”

Santo Domingo.- Senator Omar Fernández of the National District accused the Dominican government of implementing what he called a “covert tax reform” through successive increases in taxes, fees and public services.

The Fuerza del Pueblo legislator made the remarks following the government’s announcement of higher vehicle circulation tax fees, which will increase by up to RD$1,000 for the 2026-2027 period.

Fernández said the vehicle registration fee is part of a broader pattern of rising costs, citing higher tolls, increased banking transaction fees, construction supervision charges and the price of criminal record certificates, which rose from RD$600 to RD$800. He also questioned increases in the special solid waste management contribution, citing a company whose payment rose from RD$260,000 to RD$675,000.

The senator argued that these increases are taking place despite growing government revenues and questioned whether the problem is a lack of resources or how efficiently they are being managed.

“How much more does the Dominican people have to pay for the government to learn how to manage what it already receives?” Fernández asked.

He maintained that although the government has not formally presented a new tax reform, the cumulative effect of higher fees and service costs is putting additional pressure on Dominican families and businesses.