Venezuela Disaster Response: Twin earthquakes in Venezuela have killed at least 1,430 people, with more than 3,200 injured and over 51,000 still missing, as foreign rescue teams race against a shrinking survival window and Venezuela reports 1,600+ responders arriving. Venezuela Aid & Finance: The UN estimates direct physical damage at about $6.7B (around 6% of GDP), while crypto donations are being used to move emergency funds faster when banking systems are strained. DR Tourism & Air Connectivity: United Airlines will add a seasonal Houston–Santo Domingo route in winter 2026/27, with three weekly flights to boost travel demand during the holidays. Tourism Economy Pressure: A new look at Dominican tourism-linked MSMEs finds 42.2% operate informally, leaving many less competitive and more exposed—especially in Punta Cana-Macao and Puerto Plata. Trade & Exports: The Dominican Republic earned over $1.3B from tobacco exports in 2025, supporting 122,000+ direct jobs and growing since 2019. Regional Policy & Business: The DR is set to host a World Governments Summit Dialogue for Latin America and the Caribbean in November, aiming to draw investors and senior officials to Cap Cana. Local Business Spotlight: Carnival expanded its surplus meal donation program to the Dominican Republic, partnering with the Archdiocese of Puerto Plata to distribute unserved meals. Energy & Risk: A magnitude 5 earthquake was recorded in the Dominican Republic on June 26, prompting evacuations and panic in multiple provinces.