The Dominican government has announced the scheduled completion of the initial phase of the Sosúa Beach vendors’ plaza renovation in Puerto Plata by mid-March. This development marks a significant milestone in the comprehensive coastal recovery initiative originally launched in 2021.
Tourism Minister David Collado revealed the project represents a substantial investment of 500 million Dominican pesos (approximately $8.5 million USD) aimed at boosting both tourism and commercial operations in the region. The minister made these statements during his address at the forty-fifth Anato 2026 Tourism Showcase in Bogotá, Colombia.
Minister Collado emphasized the transformative nature of the project, stating: “Between March 15 and 20, we are delivering a renewed Sosúa beach where we are systematically eliminating prostitution and protecting our children and adolescents from exploitation. This initiative sends an unequivocal message to international visitors that the Dominican Republic will not welcome tourists seeking such activities.”
In parallel developments, the Tourism Ministry is channeling approximately $400,000 into sponsorship packages for water sports tournaments focused on wave and wind activities in the nearby Cabarete area. Minister Collado further indicated that similar reorganization plans are prepared for Playa Encuentro’s surrounding zone, though legal complications have temporarily halted progress on that particular project.