Spanish
Santo Domingo. - Mining led economic growth in July with a year-on-year increase of 21%, according to the Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) of the Central Bank, reflecting the sector's growing contribution to national economic dynamism, driven by local and international factors.
This was reported by the Minister of Energy and Mines, Joel Santos, who specified that within the set of sectors that made a difference, the exploitation of mines and quarries achieved a year-on-year increase of 21%, followed by manufacturing in free trade zones (7.1%), hotels, bars and restaurants (4.4%) and construction (3.8%).
Santos explained that the value of gold exports doubled, increasing from USD 115.92 million in July 2024 to USD 236.36 million in July 2025, maintaining its position as the country's main export product.
He specified that this rebound was supported by two factors: the international price of gold increased by 39%, reaching an average of USD 3,340 per ounce, compared to USD 2,398 the previous year, and that the production volume of the country's main gold mine increased by 32%, from 48,368 to 63,763 ounces, demonstrating greater operational capacity and expansion in extractive activities.
Regarding the fiscal impact, the head of Energy and Mines highlighted the positive effect that was also reflected in public finances: mining revenues also doubled, with a year-on-year growth in July of 129%, increasing from RD 3,376.86 million to RD 7,717.42 million.
"These indicators reflect greater dynamism and reactivation, driven by high gold prices and increased national production. Mining continues to contribute a significant flow of foreign currency, strengthening public finances and consolidating itself as a strategic pillar for the country's economic development," he stated.
Minister Santos emphasized that the vision of President Luis Abinader's government is to ensure that this growth occurs under a model of responsible, sustainable mining with shared benefits for all Dominican society.
