Telecom Expansion: Viettel is moving into the Dominican Republic after INDOTEL awarded it 240 MHz of spectrum for 20 years, setting up a long-term push for 4G/5G infrastructure and making the country Viettel’s 11th international market. Energy Finance: White & Case advised a consortium of banks on a US$902.3m senior secured limited recourse financing for the Manzanillo LNG-to-power project (840 MW) in the DR. Business & Growth Outlook: ECLAC projects the Dominican economy will grow about 4% in 2026, among the fastest in Latin America and the Caribbean, even as the region’s overall growth slows to 2.2%. Tourism Trade: The DR is promoting MICE tourism at IBTM Americas 2026 in Mexico, aiming to attract more meetings and business appointments. Currency Watch: The Central Bank set Friday reference rates at RD$57.17 (buy) and RD$59.71 (sell) for the dollar, and RD$65.64 (buy) and RD$69.93 (sell) for the euro. Migration Pressure: DGM reported 250,429 irregular immigration cases processed in 2026 so far, including 186,139 deportations, with major activity in Haina and Dajabón. Cross-Border Trade Risks: A business group says mislabeled or unregistered products are being transshipped via Haiti-linked routes, with about 930 semi-trucks per month and an estimated US$1bn impact. Gambling Bill Debate: Deputy Rogelio Alfonso Genao defended a gambling regulation bill, rejecting claims it would unfairly benefit betting operators through tax-debt relief. Regional Tech & AI Skills: President Abinader met 53 deaf students who completed AI training, highlighting new access to digital tools and education.