Dominican Government Approves RD$1.74Tn Budget For 2026

• The Dominican government, led by Vice President Raquel Peña Rodríguez, approved the draft General State Budget for 2026 during its fifty-second Council of Ministers meeting on Tuesday. The proposal, totalling RD$1.74Tn (20.1% of GDP), will be submitted to the National Congress before October 1, in line with constitutional requirements.
• Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza explained that the plan prioritises public investment, with capital spending set to increase by RD$39Bn compared to the initial 2025 budget. Funds will focus on infrastructure in transportation, housing, drinking water, and sanitation, aimed at boosting the economy and improving the quality of life.
• About 46% of total spending is earmarked for social services, including a guaranteed 4% of GDP for education, expanded health and social security budgets, and more resources for sports ahead of the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games.
• Budget Director José Rijo Presbot outlined the framework, which assumes 4.5% GDP growth and 4% inflation. The meeting also reviewed progress in institutional performance, priority government goals in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and industry, and the 2026 Government Program Prioritisation Plan.

(Source: Dominican Today)