Cozumel, the jewel of the Mexican Caribbean, faces a potential economic crisis due to the recent approval of the Non-Resident Right (DNR) fee for cruise passengers. This new measure, set to take effect in January 2025, imposes a charge of 800 pesos per passenger, significantly increasing costs for cruise lines and potentially reducing the number of visitors to the island.
Economic Impact
Carmen Joaquín Hernández, president of the Cozumel Business Coordinating Council, warned that this new tax, established in the Income Law, could negatively impact the local economy and reduce Cozumel’s competitiveness compared to other Caribbean destinations. Cozumel receives about 5 million cruise passengers annually, representing approximately 50% of the total number of passengers arriving in Mexico. This influx generates an estimated economic spillover of 742 million dollars annually, directly benefiting thousands of local families dependent on the tourism industry.
“Charging a tax of 800 pesos per person to passengers who stay only a few hours on the island could discourage their arrival. This would be a direct blow to our economy, especially since we compete with Caribbean destinations that offer better conditions without additional costs,” said Joaquín Hernández.
Industry Reactions
The new tax has already sparked negative reactions in the global cruise industry. The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), representing major cruise lines, expressed concern about the logistical and financial effects of this measure, especially since cruise itineraries are planned years in advance.
The Federal Rights Law for 2025 stipulates that 67% of DNR revenues will be allocated to the National Defense Secretariat (formerly Sedena), rather than local tourism promotion or infrastructure.
Call for Reconsideration
In light of this situation, Carmen Joaquín called on Quintana Roo senators Mayuli Martínez, Anahí González, and Eugenio Segura to reconsider the measure. “It is necessary that the tax be fair and that the income be used to strengthen the tourist destinations that generate it, such as Cozumel. Without these adjustments, we lose competitiveness compared to other Caribbean ports,” she stressed.
The Mexican Association for the Attention of Tourist Cruises (Amepact) reported that Mexico is expected to see a 15% to 18% increase in cruise arrivals during 2024, with Cozumel and Mahahual being the main ports in the country. However, the new tax could jeopardize this growth and the economic stability of Cozumel.
Source: Reportur
