FORT LAUDERDALE, CMC—The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) praised the Dominican Republic government on Wednesday for withdrawing proposed tax legislation that it said followed widespread consultation with the public and the private sector.
The CHTA said the government’s decision to withdraw the Tax Reform Bill reflects its commitment to good governance and democratic practices.
“President Luis Abinader’s decision to withdraw the bill demonstrates the power of collaboration between governments and stakeholders,” said CHTA president Sanovnik Destang, adding, “It also highlights the importance of consultation when decisions could impact key sectors like tourism.”
The St Lucian hotelier said it is essential for other destinations to witness this outcome, as many face similar challenges in balancing economic growth with the preservation of critical sectors.
“By observing the collaborative approach taken in the Dominican Republic, governments and stakeholders across the Caribbean can gain valuable insights into how effective consultation and policy advocacy can drive sustainable solutions in their respective countries,” Destang added.
The CHTA said that together with its partner, the Association of Hotels and Tourism of the Dominican Republic (ASONAHORES), it played a valuable role in this process, sharing global industry insights and critical data from across the region and providing dual-language statements for ASONAHORES and industry stakeholders to utilize in their presentations and remarks.
“The government’s swift action is acknowledged, and CHTA is pleased that its engagement in advocating for balanced policies supporting tourism growth contributed to the dialogue that helped lead to this decision.
“This outcome underscores the importance of incorporating key stakeholders in discussions, particularly when addressing issues with far-reaching economic impacts such as tourism. CHTA commends the private sector, especially ASONAHORES, for effectively voicing their concerns and ensuring that the significance of tourism to the Dominican Republic’s economy was recognized,” the CHTA added.
It said that tax incentives and other measures designed to promote tourism are crucial for the continued success of the region’s economies, ensuring competitiveness and supporting jobs across multiple sectors, particularly in regions with already high operating costs.
CHTA said it firmly believes that collaboration between governments and the private sector is essential for safeguarding the region’s economic future and that it would continue to encourage such partnerships throughout the area as they enable effective advocacy and policymaking.
It said collaboration with local hotel and tourism associations and governments is vital to ensuring that tourism remains a central pillar of economic development. It noted that when working together, the ability to address challenges and seize opportunities for the benefit of all is strengthened.
The CHTA said it reaffirms its commitment to providing support and guidance to its members, advocating for policies that foster sustainable tourism growth, and ensuring that the voices of tourism stakeholders are heard in critical discussions.
“As demonstrated in this case in the Dominican Republic, we are stronger when working together regionally and collaboratively,” Destang said.
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