The Ministry of Housing, Habitat and Buildings (MIVHED) reported that construction projects authorized between January and June 2026 account for more than RD$330.191 billion in projected private investment, representing a 157% increase compared with the RD$128.477 billion approved during the same period in 2025.
The figures reflect growing activity in the Dominican Republic’s construction industry while underscoring the ministry’s efforts to streamline administrative procedures and improve the efficiency of the building permit system. The increase in investment comes alongside higher demand from developers seeking approval for new projects.
Building Permit Activity Accelerates
During the first half of 2026, MIVHED issued 921 construction permits, an increase of 80% compared with the 512 permits granted during the first six months of 2025. The ministry said the higher volume demonstrates its improved capacity to process applications and support new development across the country.
Demand for permits also continued to rise. Between January and June, MIVHED received 878 permit applications, compared with 775 applications during the same period last year, marking a 13% increase in submissions from developers and construction companies.
Government Highlights Faster and More Transparent Processes
Víctor “Ito” Bisonó, Minister of Housing, Habitat and Buildings, said the results demonstrate how a more efficient permitting system can encourage economic activity and private investment.
According to Bisonó, faster and more transparent administrative procedures provide investors with greater certainty, helping projects move forward while supporting the orderly development of the construction sector. He said the ministry remains committed to modernizing the permitting process to strengthen confidence among developers and improve public services.
New Digital Permitting Platform Nears Pilot Phase
As part of its modernization strategy, MIVHED is developing a new digital permitting platform that will be owned by the Dominican government. The system is being designed in-house by ministry specialists following consultations with developers, engineers, architects, professional associations, and other stakeholders in the construction industry.
The ministry said the platform incorporates features requested during that consultation process and is preparing to enter a pilot phase, during which its functionality will be tested before full implementation.
Improving Efficiency for Investors
Among the expected benefits of the new system are greater traceability of permit applications, shorter processing times, and more predictable administrative procedures for users. These improvements are intended to simplify project approvals while increasing transparency throughout the permitting process.
With higher investment levels, increased permitting activity, and continued digital modernization, MIVHED says it aims to facilitate private investment, improve the quality of government services, and support the sustainable growth of the Dominican Republic’s construction industry.