A new fee is set to be charged to cruise passengers arriving in Quintana Roo, Mexico’s southeastern state that receives the largest number of cruise ship arrivals. The Mexican Ministry of Tourism has formalized a cooperation agreement with the shipping industry, confirming the start of the Non-Resident Fee for cruise passengers.
The gradual charge began on July 1, 2025, at $5 per passenger, as announced by Governor Mara Lezama last May. This fee is aimed at encouraging cruise lines and passengers to support local suppliers, promote Mexican folk art, and create jobs for Mexicans.
According to Federal Tourism Secretary Josefina Rodríguez Zamora, the agreement was reached after months of inter-institutional discussions with the Ministry of Finance and representatives of the shipping industry. The goal is to bring “Shared Prosperity” to host communities by investing in tourism infrastructure and supporting local businesses.
The fee will increase over time, reaching $21 per passenger from August 1, 2028. However, this gradual implementation allows cruise lines and passengers to adapt to the new charging scheme. As part of the agreement, cruise companies have committed to collaborate with the Mexican Government on the collection of the duty, promote Mexican products on board ships, and expand their promotion of Mexico as a destination.
The funds obtained from the Non-Resident Fee will be channeled through the Trust for the Well-being of Cruise Tourism, which has invested in Cozumel and Mahahual. A portion of the funds will also be allocated to the Natural Disaster Fund to support affected communities.
Rodríguez Zamora emphasized that the tourism sector’s participation in Plan Mexico is essential, and that the Non-Resident Tax Right for cruise passengers arriving in Quintana Roo will allow for increased investment goals.
Source: News Day Caribe
