Tourism & Credit Boost: The Association of Multiple Banks reports private-sector credit in the Dominican Republic rose 9.1% year-on-year by June 2026, with tourism, construction, transportation and private investment driving momentum. Public Investment Facilitation: Prime Minister Andrew Holness (Jamaica) urged public services to act as facilitators for approvals and development—speed without lowering standards. Housing Rights: A Santo Domingo lawyer says rent increases can’t be imposed unilaterally under Decree 4807; tenants can challenge abusive hikes with the Housing Rent Control and Evictions Office. Construction Permits Surge: MIVHED hit a record month with 201 construction permits in July 2026, up 85% year-on-year, citing modernization and more transparent permitting. Telecom Modernization: Indotel presented a proposed General Law to update telecommunications and digital infrastructure rules, including a single concession system and stronger consumer protections. Cigar Industry Protection: The DR created a Regulatory Council for the “Dominican Cigar” geographical indication to enforce standards from tobacco to packaging and promote the brand. Customs Crackdown: Customs destroyed 8.29 million cigarettes seized for attempted illicit entry, citing RD$53.29M in evaded taxes. Geopolitics: The DR expelled nine Cuban diplomats and families; Cuba called it submission to the U.S. Infrastructure Update: MOPC will close the Ozama River floating bridge for two hours Saturday for vessel passage. Safety & Security: Two separate robberies targeted construction payroll cash in Trinidad and Cu­tucu­pano Road areas, with large sums taken.