Dominican Republic: casinos set to reopen August 24

During a press conference held at Casino Jaragua, David Moniz, president of the Dominican Republic Casino Association said: "During this five-month closure, we have developed protocols that we have been perfecting over time, checking every small detail to make sure our establishments follow the best and most innovative health and safety guidelines to protect our guests and employees from COVID-19."

Both local and foreign patrons will be able to experience for themselves that we are the most reliable and safe industry in the country." Moniz added.

In accordance with the lockdown restrictions imposed across the national territory, which have been extended by President Danilo Medina for 25 more days, casinos will have to open during limited hours.

The casino sector is one of the most valuable industries in the Dominican Republic in terms of employment and tax revenue. "Our 56 establishments contribute to the economy of approximately 25,000 households, produce about DOM 70 M in tax revenue, and bring over DOM 200 M to the hospitality sector every month," Moniz revealed.

According to Moniz, the casino industry was severely impacted by "the government's failure to contact or oven listen to the gambling sector, in spite of our being ahead of most industries in the development of COVID-19 protocols, which follow the most rigorous international standards in health and safety, including limited capacity and the suspension of large gatherings, among others."