Water Crisis: El Niño has slashed drinking water production across Greater Santo Domingo by 33% to 68% in Caasd aqueduct systems, with the Haina-Manoguayabo system down 68% and the Isabela aqueduct down 65%, prompting transfers from the Valdesia-Santo Domingo system and service disruptions in multiple neighborhoods. Blue Economy Finance: The Dominican Republic is pushing a US$100 million initiative to fund watershed restoration, sustainable water management, sanitation, climate resilience, and marine/coastal conservation via Bluecar, the environment ministry, and the securities regulator, including a call for “blue bonds” structuring support. MICE Push: The country wrapped up IBTM Americas 2026 in Mexico City, pitching its meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions growth to 45+ local firms and securing about 1,500 business meetings. Telecom Competition: President Abinader backed new telecom entrants to break a market dominated by two companies (about 95% control), aiming to improve service and lower prices. Aviation Talent: Arajet expanded its Dominican workforce and launched/continued Boeing-linked cadet training to build local pilot capacity. Maritime Nuclear Cooperation: The IAEA’s ATLAS maritime nuclear initiative added the Dominican Republic among early supporters as it seeks safe civil nuclear applications at sea. Mining & Value-Add: DR held its first Larimar Direct Sales Fair in Barahona, connecting producers with artisans and buyers and showing demand for more processed, higher-value stone products.