Banco BHD and the Dominican Association of Sports Tourism (Adoturd) announced on August 3, 2026, the launch of the first-ever research study on sports tourism in the Dominican Republic with both national and international scope.
The project, titled “Economic Impact Study of Sports Tourism in the Dominican Republic,” will be executed by the Center for Tourism Studies and Local Development (CETDEL). The collaboration and announcement took place during the 2026 International Tourism Trade Fair (Fitur).
Research Objectives Focus on Economic and Consumer Analysis
The study aims to measure sports tourism as a distinct subsector within the country’s tourism industry. It will deliver critical data regarding investment levels and
quantify the contribution of sports tourism to the Dominican economy.
Additionally, the study intends to provide insights into the profiles of sports tourism consumers. Findings are expected to support the optimization of public policies, the encouragement of innovation, and the advancement of sustainability initiatives within the sector.
Strategic Alliance for Financial and Training Support
Alongside the research, Banco BHD and Adoturd formed a strategic alliance that includes the development of financial products tailored to sports event organizers, tour operators, athletes, and participants. Furthermore, the agreement incorporates training activities aimed at micro-enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in the sports tourism value chain.
Official Perspectives on Sports Tourism Potential
Steven Puig, president
of Banco BHD, stressed the country’s inherent potential to enhance this growing tourism niche. He stated, “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.”
Yerik Pérez, president of Adoturd, highlighted the sector’s rapid growth, noting, “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.”
