Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency highlights low contribution density and says AFP pension funds total RD$1.45 trillion

The Dominican Republic's Pensions Superintendency (SIPEN) used a radio interview with Superintendent Francisco A. Torres to outline efforts to strengthen the pension system and improve affiliates’ financial education, while highlighting how low and irregular contribution patterns are limiting access to minimum pensions. Torres said workers contribute only 41 out of every 100 months worked on average, reflecting high rotation between formal and informal employment. Under the current system, a minimum pension requires 300 contributions and is equivalent to the private-sector minimum wage, described as around RD$17,000 in 2025; however, only 20% of active affiliates contribute regularly (2.3 million out of 5.2 million). He also reported that assets accumulated in pension fund administrators (AFPs) total RD$1.45 trillion (20% of GDP), with a historical average annual return of 11% after inflation, and that 55% of account balances comes from investment returns rather than direct contributions. Addressing concerns about inactive affiliates, Torres said accounts are not lost and funds cannot be seized, but acknowledged that outdated contact details can hinder communication. He also cautioned affiliates that claiming benefits does not require lawyers or intermediaries and is free, encouraging members to check their status, update their information, and consider long-term savings tools such as complementary pension plans.