Hoy newspaper reports that during a year in which imported material inputs rose by 50-100%, overall media advertising revenues have dropped from RD$7.7 billion in 2000 and 2001 to RD$7.4 billion in 2003. Print advertising is the biggest loser, with its sales declining from RD$2.2 billion in 2000 and RD$2.1 billion in 2002 to RD$1.9 billion in 2003. TV broadcasters also posted a big decline, going from RD$4.33 billion in 2000 to RD$4.30 billion, slightly up from RD$4.28 billion in 2002. In recent months several print publications have been discontinued, primarily because of a lack of advertising revenues – namely Rumbo, Ahora, El Expreso, Ultima Hora – with others expected to go the same route. Rumors say that the free daily El Dia could be next to fall victim, and there is talk that daily newspapers could downsize to appear as tabloids. Radio spots went from earning RD$1.14 billion in 2003 to RD$1.02 billion.
According to the report, shopping malls are the biggest advertisers, holding 5.9% of that market, followed by supermarkets with a 5.5% market share. Banks are now in third place with a 4.7% market share.