Key Challenges for Dominican Tourism: Perspective of Vice Minister Jacqueline Mora
24-11-24
The Dominican Republic has registered remarkable growth in its tourism sector, reaching record figures in international visitor arrivals. However, this success brings with it the challenge of addressing structural problems to ensure sustainable and balanced development. Jacqueline Mora, Technical Vice Minister of Tourism, recently highlighted three key areas that require priority attention: urban planning, environmental protection and education.
These statements were made during her participation in the elDinero Economic Forum, organized by elDinero. At this event, Mora shared a discussion table with Luis Molina, executive of Banco BHD, to analyze the prospects and challenges of tourism in the country.
Urban planning: necessary planning
Rapid tourism development in certain regions of the country has taken place without adequate urban planning. This lack of planning has generated problems that now require significant investment to correct. Mora emphasized the importance of implementing development strategies that consider the orderly growth of infrastructure and services, ensuring that tourism progress does not compromise the quality of life of local communities or the attractiveness of the destination.
Environment: toward decarbonization
Environmental sustainability is another primary challenge. Most tourists visiting the Dominican Republic do so by air, which contributes to carbon emissions. Mora stressed the need to adopt policies and practices that promote the decarbonization of the tourism sector. This includes encouraging the use of renewable energy, implementing energy efficiency measures in tourism facilities, and promoting sustainable practices among operators and visitors.
Education: strengthening human capital
Tourism growth must be accompanied by an improvement in the quality of service offered to visitors. To this end, it is essential to invest in the education and training of the local population. Mora stressed the importance of educational programs that train workers in the sector in technical and customer service skills, thus raising service standards and improving the tourist experience.
Initiatives underway
The Ministry of Tourism has initiated projects to address these challenges. In collaboration with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), a beach rescue project is underway that includes studies on carrying capacity, waste management and safety, as well as coral regeneration. This effort seeks to preserve the natural resources that are fundamental for the tourism industry.
In addition, a Solid Waste Law has been passed covering both urban and tourist areas, with the aim of improving waste management and minimizing environmental impact. This legislation is a step towards sustainability and the protection of the country's natural environment.
Public-private collaboration
Vice Minister Mora emphasized the importance of public-private collaboration to overcome these challenges. Investment in infrastructure, the adoption of sustainable practices, and staff training require a joint effort. Tourism businesses, local communities and government must work hand in hand to ensure balanced and sustainable growth of the sector.
Looking to the future
Despite the challenges, the Dominican Republic is positioned as a leading tourism destination in the Caribbean. Effectively addressing the challenges of urban planning, environment and education will help consolidate this leadership and ensure that tourism continues to be an engine of economic and social development for the country.
Vice Minister Mora's vision reflects a commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and local communities, while preserving the natural resources that make the Dominican Republic a unique destination.
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