Dominican Republic: Protests possible over rising fuel prices

Event

On Tuesday, November 21, a coalition of transportation workers unions warned the government that it must do more to protect the transportation sector from rising fuel prices. Union officials are concerned the significant rise in prices since November 2016 will lead to higher transportation prices, which will negatively affect most customers. As of November 21, the price of regular gasoline had increased by DOP 18 (USD 0.37) per gallon, and the price of diesel increased by DOP 19.4 (USD 0.40) since last November. While union officials have not announced any planned protest actions, spontaneous protests or transportation strikes cannot be ruled out in the coming days. 

Context

Fuel prices are set weekly by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Small and Medium Enterprises.

Advice

Individuals in present in the Dominican Republic are advised keep abreast of the situation and to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution.​