AMCHAMDR receives Global Entry authorities and discusses about this initiative

SANTO DOMINGO, D.R. August 17, 2023 – Representatives of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR), led by Edwin De los Santos and William Malamud, president and executive vice president respectively, received a delegation from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), who are managing the Global Entry initiative in the Dominican Republic, an initiative that will allow easy access to the United States for eligible Dominicans.

The Chamber’s delegation also included members of the Board of Directors, María Waleska Álvarez, in her role as Vice President and Eduardo Cruz.

At the meeting, held at the AMCHAMDR facilities, the Chamber representatives expressed their full willingness to collaborate with whatever CBP needs for the implementation and development of the program in the country. In addition, they discussed the next steps and the advantages of Global Entry for the Dominican Republic.

The meeting was attended by Jennifer De La O, acting deputy assistant commissioner of the Office of Field Operations (ADEAC), Rafael Henry, office manager of the ADEAC’s Trusted Traveler Program, Amina Akbary, special assistant of ADEAC and Xander Gelabert, CBP officer of the U.S. Embassy in Santo Domingo.

Assuring that this initiative represents a vote of confidence by the United States in the ability of the Dominican Government, AMCHAMDR President Edwin De los Santos highlighted that Global Entry will reduce migration time and improve the travel experience, which will be especially beneficial for those who travel regularly for commercial reasons, representing an important milestone for the Dominican Republic.

“This is an initiative we have supported for years and marks an important milestone for the country. The implementation of Global Entry in the DR is an important step for frequent flyers, business people and the general public that will help minimize migration time. We believe Dominicans will take full advantage of this important initiative,” said De los Santos.

By joining Global Entry, Dominican citizens with visas will be able to apply for entry online and easily access inspection kiosks at U.S. airports, avoiding long lines and expediting the entry process, making those who meet the requirements reliable travelers, enjoying facilities that will allow them a smoother entry into the U.S. country.

This achievement places the Dominican Republic as the 16th country to join Global Entry and the sixth in Latin America and the Caribbean. In making the announcement, Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez highlighted that this milestone has been possible thanks to the collaboration of the Government and the work of the Director of Customs, who achieved the integration of the databases required for participation in the program.

About the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR)

The American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic (AMCHAMDR) is a non-profit association, legally incorporated on November 8, 1923, that fosters a healthy investment climate based on access to knowledge, opportunities and a culture of best practices for the socioeconomic and professional development of its members. AMCHAMDR is affiliated with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is a founding member of the Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America (AACCLA).