Labor Data Upgrade: Dominican Labor Minister Eddy Olivares received a new statistical monitoring project from Mexico’s INEGI to strengthen labor records and improve evidence-based policymaking. Union Strategy: The DR hosted the UNI Américas Regional Organizing and Strategy Forum, bringing unions together to train on organizing, labor rights, and workplace safety. Trade Pressure: CONEP’s Celso Juan Marranzini warned a 12.5% U.S. tariff could hurt Dominican exports over time, urging a preferential deal to benefit from nearshoring value chains. Migration Enforcement: The Migration Directorate said it’s intensifying actions against networks facilitating irregular migration, including transport, housing, and evasion routes. Visa Costs for DR Applicants: Reports say a Trump pilot program will require some Dominican applicants to post bonds up to $250,000 for certain U.S. visas. Business & Growth Agenda: The government launched the 1st National Forum for the Full Development of Meta RD 2036, aiming to double the economy by 2036 through reforms across public and private sectors. New Penal Code: The DR’s new Penal Code expands penalties for defamation, including defamation via social media and digital platforms. Tourism & Culture: Santo Domingo marked 528 years since its 1498 founding, highlighting the Colonial City’s UNESCO heritage. Energy Cooperation: Guyana and Jamaica signed agreements to deepen Caribbean energy collaboration, building on a DR-linked oil and gas partnership. Currency Watch: Central Bank reference rates showed the dollar and euro largely stable vs. the prior day.