Dominican Republic Roundup: Migrant trafficking bill, Judicial reforms, Trade relations with Kenya
Senate approves 25-year term for migrant trafficking
The Dominican Republic’s Senate has passed a bill imposing up to 25 years in prison for migrant trafficking. Introduced by Senator Omar Fernández, the law also bars guilty officials from holding public office for 20 years. “This is not just about punishing individuals,” Fernández said. “It’s about protecting our borders and institutions.” The bill significantly strengthens penalties compared to the executive’s original draft, which allowed lighter sanctions, Caribbean National Weekly reports. The move responds to rising concerns about official complicity in smuggling networks. If enacted, it would become one of the country’s toughest anti-trafficking laws. The proposal passed its second reading and now goes to the Chamber of Deputies. Human rights groups say enforcement will be key to its success. The law applies to all trafficking cases, including maritime and overland smuggling. Fernández described it as “a turning point in our migration policy.”
$760 million port expansion
DP World has signed a $760 million agreement to expand the Dominican Republic’s Caucedo Port and Free Trade Zone. Half of the funds will be used to upgrade port infrastructure for next-gen ships and boost cargo capacity. The rest will develop new roads, storage, and commercial facilities in the Free Trade Zone. “This is a major step toward making Caucedo the Caribbean’s leading logistics hub,” said DP World CEO Sultan bin Sulayem. The deal includes quay extension, breakwater expansion, and new automation systems. Caucedo’s container capacity will grow from 2.5 to 3.1 million TEUs. The project is expected to create jobs and attract global investment. DP World will add ship-to-shore cranes and enhanced security systems. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce co-signed the agreement. Construction will also unlock 225 hectares for development, Port Technology reports.
Dominican Republic discuss trade, direct flights with Kenya
Kenya and the Dominican Republic are exploring stronger trade and investment ties following high-level talks in Nairobi. Kenya’s Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi met Minister Víctor Bisonó to discuss value-added exports like coffee and horticulture. “Our discussion centered on unlocking value addition ventures,” Mudavadi said after the meeting. The two countries are also considering direct flights between Santo Domingo and Nairobi. Mudavadi called a potential air link a “strategic step” to deepen cultural and diplomatic ties, Newsline reports. Both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation through their chambers of commerce. Kenya is eyeing new Caribbean markets for its agricultural exports. The Dominican Republic is seeking technology partnerships and logistics solutions. Talks build on recent South-South cooperation between African and Caribbean nations. Bisonó said the dialogue reflects “a new era of international engagement.”
US, Dominican military teams train
The U.S. and Dominican Republic militaries have launched a joint program to train enlisted military leaders. The weeklong course includes 50 Dominican participants from the Army, Air Force, and Navy. It was held at San Isidro’s Infantry School and led by U.S. Army and WHINSEC personnel. The curriculum focused on leadership development and career progression. U.S. Sgt. Maj. Rafael Rodriguez, a Dominican native, addressed the group in Spanish. “You are pioneers, setting a positive example for your fellow service members,” he said. This is the second such exchange aimed at modernising military training in the region. The program was praised for strengthening bilateral defense cooperation. Dominican instructors co-developed the lesson plan with U.S. counterparts. The initiative supports regional security and professional military education.
Judicial reforms
President Luis Abinader reiterated his administration’s commitment to modernizing the Dominican judiciary. He spoke at the opening of the 22nd Ibero-American Judicial Summit in Santo Domingo. Abinader highlighted reforms like digitalization, remote hearings, and citizen support centers. “A citizen-centered justice system is key to democracy,” he said. Dominican Today reports that Chief Justice Luis Henry Molina called for dignity, openness, and coherence in court systems. The summit focuses on reducing delays, promoting access, and improving transparency. Representatives from 22 Ibero-American countries are attending the summit. This year’s event includes a “Justice Service of the Future” tech fair. The fair showcases innovations in legal digital tools across the region. Organisers say the reforms will help restore public trust in justice.
