Tourism & Credit: The Dominican economy keeps expanding on tourism momentum, with credit to the private sector up 9.1% year-on-year by end-June 2026, adding over RD$80 billion in the first half, as banks back commercial and mortgage lending tied to construction, transport and private investment. Legislative Agenda: The National Congress kicks off the Second Ordinary Legislature of 2026 on Aug. 16, with pending reforms spanning security, health, education, justice, labor and cybersecurity, plus updates to the Social Security Law and major legal codes. Telecom Modernization: Indotel presented a proposal for a new Telecommunications, Digital Infrastructure and Connectivity law aimed at simplifying authorizations, enabling a single electronic window, promoting network sharing and updating rules for fiber, mobile generations and submarine cables. Housing Rights: A legal explainer says landlords can’t raise rent unilaterally under Decree 4807 without the tenant’s written consent or specific authorization, and tenants can request reductions from the Housing Rent Control and Evictions Office. Cuban Diplomats Exit: Cuba’s embassy staff in Santo Domingo packed belongings as the Dominican government ordered nine Cuban officials to leave by Aug. 13 deadline, escalating diplomatic tension. Workplace Safety: IDOPPRIL reports 35,670 workplace accidents in 2025, with commuting incidents rising and motorcycles involved in over 80% of commuting accidents. Festival & Education Investments: Presidente Festival 2026 ticketing starts with presales (RD$3,900+), while President Abinader backed new UFHEC campus construction in San Juan to expand higher education and jobs.