Dominican Republic faces challenges in territorial planning

In the Dominican Republic, particularly in the agricultural region of Moca, urban expansion is increasingly encroaching upon highly productive farmland. This transformation is leading to the irreversible conversion of agricultural land into residential and urban developments.

Addressing this issue requires effective territorial planning, a mandate established by Article 194 of the Dominican Constitution to ensure the efficient and sustainable use of natural resources. Law No. 368-22, regarding Territorial Planning, Land Use, and Human Settlements, provides the legal framework to prevent improvised responses to urban growth. Municipalities hold a critical responsibility in regulating land use and coordinating with national authorities to manage these transitions.