Banco BHD and the Dominican Association of Sports Tourism (Adoturd) announced on August 3, 2026, the launch of the Dominican Republic’s first comprehensive research study on the economic impact of sports tourism. The initiative aims to gather national and international data relevant to this growing sector.
Scope and Objectives of the Research
The study, titled “Economic Impact Study of Sports Tourism in the Dominican Republic,” will be conducted by the Center for Tourism Studies and Local Development (CETDEL). The research will measure the sports tourism subsector separately and analyze investment levels, economic contributions, and consumer profiles. It seeks to optimize public policies, drive innovation, and enhance
sustainability within sports tourism, a sector accounting for 10% of global tourist spending according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
Strategic Partnership and Industry Support
BHD and Adoturd’s alliance extends beyond research to include developing tailored financial products for event organizers, tour operators, athletes, and sports participants. This partnership also involves training micro-enterprises and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on the characteristics and opportunities within the sports tourism value chain, supporting deeper engagement in the market.
Official Statements on Sports Tourism Potential
Banco BHD President Steven Puig emphasized the country’s potential for expanding sports tourism, stating, “We believe our country has all the potential to further strengthen this niche, and that
is why we want to join efforts to support the National Sports Tourism Strategy through research, which is a fundamental pillar for designing data-driven strategies.”Adoturd President Yerik Pérez noted the sector’s rapid growth and strategic importance, saying, “Sports tourism is the fastest-growing sector in the tourism industry. Our country has everything to become the main sports tourism hub in the Caribbean and Central America. This research will be an essential step in the joint goal we have with BHD to promote sustainable initiatives that generate economic impact, social inclusion, and greater international visibility for the Dominican Republic.”
Sports tourism is
recognized as an economic accelerator that extends visitor stays and increases direct and indirect spending. It also bolsters the country’s reputation and investment climate within the Caribbean and Central America region.
