Dominicans intercepted en route to Puerto Rico and Abinader mobilizes businesses amid crisis

Migration: 60 migrants intercepted near Puerto Rico

Santo Domingo, March 31, 2026. — Maritime migration and economic uncertainty are once again converging in the Dominican Republic, as authorities report a new interception of migrants near Puerto Rico while President Luis Abinader moves to contain mounting external pressures on the national economy.

The United States Coast Guard confirmed the repatriation of 60 migrants to the Dominican Republic following the interception of a vessel near Mona Island, west of Puerto Rico.

The group included 43 Haitian men, 11 Haitian women and six Dominican nationals. The operation was carried out by the cutter Thetis, in coordination with the San Juan sector and U.S. Customs and Border Protection air patrol units.

According to authorities, the migrants received food, water and basic medical assistance before being handed over to the Dominican Navy.

Officials reiterated the dangers associated with irregular maritime migration, often conducted on overcrowded and fragile vessels. The Mona Passage remains one of the most heavily used and perilous routes for migrants attempting to reach Puerto Rico from Hispaniola.

Economy: Abinader mobilizes business leaders

Against this backdrop, President Luis Abinader has convened a high-level meeting with leading representatives of the industrial and commercial sectors to assess the impact of the global crisis on the Dominican economy.

The meeting, scheduled for March 31 at the National Palace, will bring together key organizations including the Consejo Nacional de la Empresa Privada (CONEP), the Asociación de Industrias de la República Dominicana (AIRD), the Organización Nacional de Empresas Comerciales (ONEC), the Unión Nacional de Empresarios (UNE) and the Junta Agroempresarial Dominicana (JAD).

The government aims to preserve price stability for essential goods and services amid rising fuel costs linked to global market volatility.

Authorities have already implemented measures to freeze fuel prices following a sharp increase of 15 pesos within two weeks. The initiative seeks to protect economic sectors particularly vulnerable households while maintaining close coordination with private stakeholders.

Soraya Ades.