Tourism & Growth Watch: JP Morgan raised its Dominican Republic growth projection to 4.3%, pointing to tourism momentum (6.62M visitors in Jan–Jun 2026) and stronger domestic demand, investment, and credit conditions. Free Zones & Jobs: A new EY study says DR free trade zones can generate up to seven times the tax incentives’ value, supporting sectors like medical devices, manufacturing, tobacco, textiles, and services. Public Works for Visitors: Tourism Minister David Collado inaugurated the restored Alcázar de Colón Museum and launched an RD$86M public lighting upgrade in Santo Domingo’s Colonial City to boost safety and the visitor experience. Energy & Inflation Risk: ECLAC warns higher oil prices will keep pressuring Central America and the Dominican Republic’s trade balances and inflation, especially for energy-importing economies. Security & Enforcement: COBA reported it exceeded its 2025 alcohol-business supervision target by 163%, regulating 56,487 establishments nationwide. Transport Costs: CNTU in Bonao said it will not increase passenger fares for now, citing operating-cost pressure. Community Finance & Inclusion: Banreservas Volunteers opened its first Northern-region office in Santiago, expanding social programs beyond Santo Domingo. Legal & Rights Debate: Eduardo Saint-Hilaire urged vigilance over Penal Code revisions, warning changes could still affect freedom of expression via defamation penalties. Drug Interdiction: US CBP seized $1.5M in cocaine hidden in “music equipment” shipped from Santo Domingo to Delhi. Protest Pressure: Pot-banging demonstrations continued for a fifth straight day in Greater Santo Domingo, with residents denouncing high living costs and demanding answers.