Santo Domingo.- The Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (ASONAHORES) has urged the government to conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis of the current tax structures as part of the proposed Tax Reform. While acknowledging the need for a comprehensive fiscal pact to improve tax efficiency and public spending transparency, ASONAHORES emphasized the importance of protecting productive sectors that drive economic growth and job creation.
David Llibre, president of ASONAHORES, highlighted that sectors like tourism contribute significantly more to the economy than what the state loses in tax exemptions. He stressed that any changes in the fiscal framework should support these industries’ continued growth. ASONAHORES reported that from 2019 to 2023, the tourism sector experienced an annual growth rate of 23% and a 6% increase in tourist arrivals. However, hotel industry expansion has not matched this pace, making it a key area for review in the reform process.
The association reiterated that tourism forms the backbone of the country’s economy, creating extensive productive chains that benefit agriculture, industry, and services. ASONAHORES urged the government to ensure that fiscal reforms promote competitiveness and growth while addressing unfair competition and preserving the stability of sectors that attract both foreign and local investment.
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