Enacted in 2010, and with the first production benefiting in 2012, this regulation has allowed the development of a solid infrastructure that has positioned the Dominican Republic as a competitive film destination in the region. To date, more than 5,600 people and companies are part of the Dominican audiovisual ecosystem, and more than 130 projects have been executed, financed through the Film Promotion Fund (FONPROCINE).
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The tax incentives established in articles 34 and 39 of the law have been crucial in attracting major international studios such as Netflix, Amazon Studios, Disney, Universal, and Paramount, as well as co-productions with countries like France, Germany, China, Namibia, Colombia, and Spain. Thanks to this, the projection of Dominican talent and technicians in high-level productions has become an increasingly common phenomenon. In 2023 alone, the film industry contributed RD$10.197 billion to the national economy, with a total of 120 productions, of which 75 were national and 45 foreign. During that year, 4,685 direct jobs were generated and economic impacts in complementary sectors such as food and beverages (RD$772.5 million) and transportation (RD$1,001.1 million). In the present year 2025, 33 new projects have already been validated through the Intersectoral Council for the Promotion of Cinematographic Activity (CIPAC), mobilizing investments of more than RD$1.926 billion. These projects have generated 1,757 jobs, more than 6,000 hotel nights, and a direct tax collection of RD$165.6 million in ITBIS and RD$62.1 million in ISR. Beyond the economic impact, Dominican cinema has achieved significant cultural milestones. National films have been selected in prestigious international festivals such as Berlin, Toronto, Venice, Sundance, and Locarno. In 2024, Pepe, by Nelson Carlo de los Santos Arias, won the Silver Bear at the Berlinale, marking a before and after for the country. On streaming platforms, Dominican films are already available in the catalogs of Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+ and Mubi, expanding the global reach of Dominican cinema. The presence in the country of international stars like Jennifer Lopez, Brad Pitt, Vin Diesel, and Robert De Niro has not only served to raise the profile of the industry but has also boosted the country’s brand through social media and international media. In addition, the constant filming of reality shows and international series has consolidated the Dominican Republic as an audiovisual hub of the Caribbean. 15 years after the implementation of Law 108-10, the Dominican Republic is emerging as a regional example of how cinema can be a strategic sector, not only in economic terms, but also as an instrument of cultural projection, job creation, and attraction of foreign investment. The challenge now is to maintain, strengthen, and evolve this legal framework, ensuring that the benefits reach more people and that cinema continues to be a tool for telling the story, identity, and creativity of the Dominican people.
