Santo Domingo – The National Statistics Office (ONE) announced that 35.0% of formal Dominican companies with internet access are already using artificial intelligence (AI) in their routine activities, according to the latest bulletin from the 2025 National Survey of Economic Activity (ENAE). The figure marks a clear turning point for the private sector, which now enjoys a 94.7% rate of global connectivity, providing the digital backbone needed for advanced technology adoption.
The survey highlights a strong correlation between firm size and AI uptake. Large enterprises employing 250 or more workers lead the charge, with 52.0% reporting AI integration. Medium‑sized firms with 50 to 99 employees follow closely, at 46.1%, indicating that operational innovation is spreading beyond the corporate elite. Smaller businesses, while lagging, are still part of a growing digital ecosystem that is reshaping how the Dominican Republic does business.
Sector‑by‑sector analysis shows the mining and quarrying industry at the forefront, with 45.7% of its connected firms deploying AI tools – a surprising lead over more traditionally tech‑heavy fields. Construction (39.1%) and manufacturing (38.1%) also demonstrate robust adoption, reflecting a shift toward automated processes and data‑driven decision‑making on building sites and factory floors. Retail is not far behind, with 36.9% of internet‑enabled stores leveraging AI for inventory management, customer insights and personalized marketing.
Industry leaders say the surge is driven by the need to improve efficiency, cut costs and stay competitive in a region where digital transformation is accelerating. "AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it is a practical solution that helps us optimise supply chains, predict maintenance needs and enhance customer experiences," said a spokesperson for a leading Dominican manufacturing association. The ONE data suggests that as connectivity deepens, AI will become an indispensable component of the national economy, prompting policymakers to consider supportive regulations and workforce upskilling programmes.
While the numbers are encouraging, experts caution that the rapid rollout also raises questions about job displacement and the readiness of the labour market to adapt. Ongoing monitoring will be essential to ensure that the benefits of AI are broadly shared across the Dominican workforce and that the country can sustain its momentum in the digital age.
