US Tariffs & Trade Pressure: The U.S. imposed a 12.5% Section 301 tariff on Dominican exports to the U.S., with Kingtom Aluminio S.R.L. (Chinese-owned aluminum extrusion) flagged as a key driver after a prior forced-labor finding by CBP. Airport Automation for Tourism: Punta Cana International Airport rolled out six automated border-control kiosks for arriving travelers, aiming to speed processing and reduce physical contact at immigration. Education Logistics: Minerd is ramping up the 2026-2027 school year with millions of textbooks/workbooks, INABIE school supply kits, and plans for 1,500 new classrooms by August (plus more by year-end). Agribusiness Risk from El Niño: COE warns commercial agriculture to prepare for losses as El Niño intensifies, citing banana, rice, and cocoa as most vulnerable. Water & Environment: The Environment Ministry highlighted progress protecting the Yaque del Norte River basin through reforestation, soil conservation, and climate-resilient watershed projects. Medical Supply Chain: DP World secured ISO 13485 certification in the Dominican Republic to support compliant logistics for medical device manufacturers. Food Security Milestone: FAO confirmed the DR exited the global hunger map after undernourishment fell below 2.5%, citing coordinated policy and agricultural support. Urban Mobility in Punta Cana: A Verón-Punta Cana planning proposal pushes sustainable transit-oriented development, including a first formal bicycle lane network and a clearer road hierarchy.