AI Skills Push: President Luis Abinader launched “RD Inteligente,” aiming to train 1 million Dominicans in AI literacy so people can boost productivity and improve how they work, study, and run small businesses—starting from basic levels and offering paths toward automation, data, and programming with certifications backed by major tech firms. Real Estate Prices: A new ONE/ROE report shows apartment prices in the Santo Domingo metro can triple depending on the municipality and even the sector—Santo Domingo de Guzmán leads at RD$148,445 per sq meter, while Los Alcarrizos sits far lower at RD$48,418. Education Score Warning: OECD/PISA coverage flags falling reading and math performance across wealthy countries, with more students landing in low-performing bands—another reminder of the pressure on education systems. Tech & Payments Tension: Anadegas says 780 gas stations will disconnect Verifone payment services on Sept. 25, arguing fees are too high and calling on other retailers to join. Tourism Training: Turio, a new specialized tourism academy, was launched to professionalize talent beyond basic hotel training, with programs spanning management, operations, hospitality, tech, innovation, and sustainability. Trade & Food: Canada regained access to the Dominican beef market after DR audits cleared Canadian inspection controls. Business & Compliance: Dominican merchants are again raising concerns about unfair competition from Chinese-owned stores, citing alleged tax evasion and undervaluation of imports.