Amidst the bustling atmosphere of the 2026 International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR), Dominican Minister of Tourism David Collado reaffirmed his commitment to the nation’s leading economic engine, stating that the industry must be “better understood” by society to fully realize its value.
Leading a high-level delegation of hoteliers, bankers, and government officials, Collado spoke with Diario Libre between high-stakes meetings at the Dominican Republic’s vibrant pavilion. Having recently confirmed he will remain in his post for one more year, the Minister outlined a strategy focused on continuity and refinement rather than radical change. David Collado has announced his aspirations to seek the presidency in the 2028 general election.
“What works and yields good results is improved, but not changed,” Collado said when asked about his goals for the upcoming year. He pointed to the last five years of Dominican tourism policy as a period of undeniable success, evidenced by record-breaking visitor numbers and high rates of returning tourists.
Collado emphasized that the country’s current standing as a global tourism powerhouse is the result of tireless behind-the-scenes work. “Behind every cruise line, airline, or investment, there is a massive amount of effort. We must safeguard the country’s image, promote our culture, and ensure that our society understands the full value of tourism,” he noted.
Reflecting on his tenure, Collado highlighted the recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic as a defining moment for the sector. He attributed the industry’s resilience to an unprecedented level of cooperation between the public and private sectors.
“Perhaps the brightest point has been the harmony achieved between the public and private sectors,” Collado explained. “We have joined forces, working shoulder to shoulder for the good of the country.” He also credited President Luis Abinader as a primary driver of these achievements, citing a shared commitment to efficiency and honest labor.
While the event was shadowed by a tragic local train accident, for which Collado expressed his deepest solidarity with the Spanish people, the Minister reported significant progress for the Dominican Republic.
While deferring specific financial figures to the banking executives and businessmen present, Collado confirmed that the delegation secured has secured expanded air connectivity, new investment commitments and stronger ties with global tour operators and travel agents.
Collado is only one of two cabinet ministers that has remained in his position since the start of the first administration of President Luis Abinader. The other is the minister of Superior Education. “We leave with the satisfaction of knowing we are recognized as a global tourism power,” Collado said. “I came here to work, which is what I know how to do.”
Read more in Spanish:
Diario Libre
22 January 2026