Dominican Republic mining sector grows 17.9% in September

The Dominican Republic's mining sector experienced a 17.9% year-on-year expansion in September 2026, becoming the second fastest-growing productive activity for that month. According to Minister of Energy and Mines Joel Santos, the sector's cumulative growth for the first nine months of the year reached 5.2%, driven by increased extraction of gold, silver, and construction materials.

Gold exports reached $2,392.5 million between January and September 2026, representing a 49.8% annual increase. The industry also attracted $420.6 million in foreign direct investment during the second quarter of 2026.

Labor data indicates that mining employees earn an average monthly salary of RD$78,000, which is double the national average of RD$39,000. The government is currently working on updating Mining Law 146-71 to modernize the regulatory framework and address environmental, fiscal, and social challenges.