# Dominican Republic resource and infrastructure management

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-resource-and-infrastructure-management
> Updated: 2026-10-26T03:00:54.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

Discussions regarding the management of natural resources and large-scale infrastructure in the Dominican Republic have highlighted tensions between economic development and local interests.

Concerns have been raised regarding procurement processes for major water security projects, such as the Hatillo-Santo Domingo project and the Verón-Punta Cana sanitation system. Critics, including lawyer Pedro Jiménez, have warned that current contracting structures may exclude Dominican companies, arguing that such projects should prioritize technology transfer and the strengthening of national businesses.

Simultaneously, the mining sector is facing debate over the balance between extractive activities and environmental protection. During the RD Debate 2026 forum, stakeholders discussed the need for a sustainable mining model. While officials and industry representatives emphasized the sector's role in job creation, tax revenue, and infrastructure development, the conversation centered on ensuring legal certainty and institutional governance to protect natural resources.

Recent data indicates significant economic momentum within the mining sector. In September 2026, the industry saw a 17.9% year-on-year expansion, making it the second fastest-growing productive activity for that month. Minister of Energy and Mines Joel Santos reported that cumulative growth for the first nine months of the year reached 5.2%, fueled by the extraction of gold, silver, and construction materials. Gold exports alone rose 49.8% annually, totaling $2,392.5 million between January and September 2026. 

Economic benefits include $420.6 million in foreign direct investment during the second quarter of 2026 and higher-than-average wages, with mining employees earning an average of RD$78,000 per month. To address ongoing environmental, fiscal, and social challenges, the government is working to update Mining Law 146-71.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-26: Dominican Republic mining sector grows 17.9% in September

Dominican Republic's mining sector grew 17.9% in September 2026, fueled by a 49.8% surge in gold exports and significant foreign investment.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-mining-sector-faces-debate-over-water-and-economy

### 2026-10-04: Dominican water projects face concerns over local business exclusion

Journalist Pedro Jiménez warns that Dominican water infrastructure projects worth over US$600 million may use contracting rules that exclude local companies from major opportunities.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-water-projects-face-concerns-over-local-business-exclusion

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Cite as: Dominican Republic resource and infrastructure management. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-resource-and-infrastructure-management