Rare Earth Push: President Abinader told the UN and international partners the Dominican Republic is moving toward rare earth exports around 2028, with reserve work and processing tech development underway. Energy & Tech Policy: The Ministry of Energy and Mines says it has processed 5,000+ lab samples for rare earths, aiming to certify reserves in the first half of 2027. AI for Industry: IDB convened regional leaders and tech giants to map safe AI adoption across Latin America and the Caribbean, while Barrick signed a multi-year industrial AI deal to deploy autonomy across North American gold operations. Payments Upgrade: Apple expanded Tap to Pay on iPhone to the Dominican Republic, letting merchants accept contactless payments using just an iPhone and a compatible app. Aviation Learning: IDAC will bring interactive flight simulators to the Santo Domingo International Book Fair, with career guidance for air traffic control and aeronautical management. Regional Security Tech: The “Shield of the Americas” coalition added coordinated sanctions and financial actions targeting narco-terrorist groups, with Dominican Republic among signatories. Local Oversight: DGCP reported monitoring of Inabie kitchen tenders, including appeals and verification steps. Business & Trade: Dominican Week in London (Nov 1–5) will spotlight energy, tech, manufacturing, agro-exports and tourism opportunities.