Banco BHD and the Dominican Association of Sports Tourism (Adoturd) announced the launch of the first research study on sports tourism with both national and international scope in the Dominican Republic on August 3, 2026.
Research Study Details and Announcement
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 announcement was made at the 2026 International Tourism Trade Fair (Fitur) held in Madrid.
Objectives and Scope of the Research
The research aims to provide a separate measurement of the sports tourism subsector in the country. It will generate data on investment levels, economic
contributions, and consumer profiles. These insights are intended to inform public policy optimization, encourage innovation, and promote the sustainability of sports tourism.
Official Statements and Sector Context
Steven Puig, president of Banco BHD, stated that the Dominican Republic has significant potential to expand its sports tourism niche. He emphasized that this research is fundamental to creating data-driven strategies supporting the National Sports Tourism Strategy.
Yerik Pérez, president of Adoturd, highlighted that sports tourism is the fastest-growing sector within the tourism industry. He said the country is poised to become the main sports tourism hub in the Caribbean and Central America. Pérez noted the importance of
this study to promote sustainable initiatives generating economic impact, enhancing social inclusion, and increasing international visibility.
According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), sports tourism accounts for 10% of total global tourist spending. The sector is recognized as an economic accelerator, increasing the average length of stay and both direct and indirect expenditures, while boosting national reputation and attracting investment.
Strategic Alliance and Additional Initiatives
Beyond research, the collaboration between Banco BHD and Adoturd includes developing targeted financial products for sports event stakeholders such as organizers, tour operators, athletes, and participants. It also involves providing training programs for micro-enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises focused
on the sports tourism value chain.
