The international reserves of the Central Bank of the Dominican Republic have reached their highest level in history, with gross assets exceeding US$16,854 million in February 2026. This milestone marks a significant rebound compared to the previous peak of US$16,832 million registered in June 2023, according to official data from the monetary institution.
Rebound after a temporary decline
This achievement comes after a notable decline in January 2026, when the international reserves of the Central Bank fell US$735 million compared to December 2025. Net reserves in dollars decreased from US$14,686.7 million to US$13,951.9 million in that month. However, the rebound in February pushed gross reserves in dollars to US$16,180 million, close to the historic maximum of US$16,202 million in mid-2023.
What do these reserves include?
The gross assets include goods, rights, and financial resources without deductions for depreciation or provisions. Among them, the international reserves of the Central Bank in gold, foreign currencies, and public debt credits stand out. These elements are pillars for monetary policy, allowing for the support of the Dominican peso’s stability and the facing of external shocks.
Historical context and economic relevance
Historically, the international reserves of the Central Bank have grown steadily since 2020, driven by record remittances, booming tourism, and exports. In 2023, the previous peak reflected a robust post-pandemic economy, with a GDP growing above 5%. Experts, such as the Monetary Fund’s economists, highlight that high levels of reserves strengthen investor confidence and cover imports for over 10 months, a key cushion in a dollar-dependent country.
Implications for stability
- Protection against global volatility in commodity prices.
- Facilitates interventions in the foreign exchange market to control inflation.
- Supports external debt financing without immediate pressures.
Independent analysts point out that this record in the international reserves of the Central Bank positions the Dominican Republic as one of the most solid economies in the region. Unlike neighbors with dwindling reserves, the country maintains a current account surplus, thanks to foreign direct investment in free zones and construction.
Locally, statements from Central Bank officials emphasize that these reserves guarantee liquidity for the private sector. Despite the January dip, possibly linked to seasonal debt payments, the upward trend persists. The international reserves of the Central Bank not only represent a record but also an indicator of resilience against global uncertainties such as geopolitical tensions or fluctuations in oil prices.
This advance underscores the strategic importance of the international reserves of the Central Bank for the Dominican Republic’s future economic development, consolidating their role in macroeconomic stability.
