Water & Irrigation Tech: The Dominican Republic and Israel are deepening cooperation on water management and agricultural irrigation, with Israel’s ambassador meeting TNR officials to discuss efficiency upgrades and reducing losses in existing irrigation systems. Health Tourism Push: The Senate approved landmark legislation to make health tourism a national priority, aiming to raise quality and accreditation standards, attract investment, and strengthen public-private coordination. Dam Operations: COPRE is adjusting dam and reservoir operations as forecasts point to a rainfall deficit through November, prioritizing aqueduct and irrigation supply based on updated reservoir levels. Trade & Logistics (Haiti): Dominican customs tightened controls on containers transiting to Haiti, adding more inspections and requiring service requests at least 24 hours in advance amid security disruptions. Business Growth: The formal business sector expanded in 2025, with formal business units up 5% and formal employment surpassing 2.56 million jobs. Tourism & Hospitality: Asonahores says the restaurant sector is still expanding, citing 68 new restaurant openings in Santo Domingo over the past year, while Casas del XVI joined IHG’s Vignette Collection. Aviation & Costs: Airport fee increases are drawing criticism as operators warn charges are “getting out of hand.” Energy/Environment: The government declared “environmental terrorism” a high national interest, signaling tougher enforcement for attacks on protected areas.