Extractive industry in the Dominican Republic: A history of growth, regression and recovery

The evolution of the mining sector in the Dominican Republic has been a slow and tortuous one. The last 100 years are characterized by the country's search for a way of using its non-renewable resources in a more sustainable manner. The Dominican Republic has a very favorable geology and displays world class deposits. In the near future, the mining sector should become a relevant pillar of the Dominican economy by contributing directly to its diversification and also to local development. Throughout time the Dominican Republic has acquired experience in dealing with mining companies. The positive elements of its experience must be preserved in order to build a relationship based on a fair distribution of benefits at all levels: national, local and investor. The country must be institutionally prepared to benefit from its mining potential in the most favorable way to protect its interests, and thus make a very positive impact on the welfare of all Dominicans.