BTN News: David Collado, the Minister of Tourism for the Dominican Republic, has expressed a strong desire to continue leading the institution he has successfully managed for the past four years. Despite no official decree confirming this, Collado conveyed his intent to remain at the helm for at least one or two more years, emphasizing his commitment to the country’s tourism sector. He described the opportunity to serve as an honor and hinted at a potential extension of his tenure, pending the decision of President Luis Abinader on August 16, 2024. His remarks came at the conclusion of a presentation showcasing the impressive growth in visitor arrivals during his term.
The tourism sector in the Dominican Republic has seen remarkable progress under Collado’s leadership. In July alone, the country welcomed 811,192 tourists by air, reflecting a 2% increase compared to the same month last year. This figure also represents a 10% rise from 2022 and a significant 37% jump from 2019, underscoring the sector’s robust recovery and expansion. Furthermore, the Dominican Republic received 206,704 cruise passengers in July, marking a 39% increase from last year, a 96% surge from 2022, and an astonishing 148% growth compared to 2019.
Collado proudly announced that the total number of visitors in July reached 1,017,896, which is 8% higher than last year, 21% above the 2022 figures, and a staggering 51% increase compared to 2019. These statistics highlight the Dominican Republic’s growing appeal as a top global destination and underscore the effectiveness of the strategies implemented by Collado and his team to boost tourism.
The success of the tourism sector is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Collado, who has consistently delivered monthly reports on the industry’s performance. His tenure has been marked by strategic initiatives that have not only revitalized tourism but have also positioned the Dominican Republic as a leading destination in the Caribbean and beyond. The impressive growth in visitor numbers is a clear indication that the country is on a solid path to further success.
As the tourism sector continues to thrive, the prospect of Collado extending his leadership for another one or two years is seen as a positive move that could further enhance the industry’s growth. With his experience and proven track record, Collado is well-positioned to continue driving the sector forward, ensuring that the Dominican Republic remains a preferred choice for travelers from around the world.
In summary, David Collado’s intent to stay on as Minister of Tourism for an additional year or two could be a significant boon for the Dominican Republic’s tourism industry. His leadership has already brought about record-breaking visitor numbers and a strong recovery from previous years. The continuation of his tenure could ensure sustained growth and further solidify the Dominican Republic’s standing as a premier destination in the global tourism market.
