The announcement in Los Angeles on Monday [22] follows the passage of Law #108-2010 which provides a 25% tax credit on features and TV shows shot in the country.

Perez will officially serve as director-general of cinematography and will work closely with an advisory board and the General Department For Cinematography (DGCINE), which effectively functions as the Film Commission.

Authorities said the country offered diverse geography, seven international airports, state-of-the-art infrastructure and experienced crew at competitive rates.

They expect the body to nurture an industry potentially worth $375m that might could more than 24,000 people. Notable films to have shot in-country include The Godfather II and Jurassic Park.

In February US and Dominican Republic-based Indomina Releasing recently partnered with Pinewood Studios Group to run a new film and television facility in the Dominican Republic in Juan Dolio.