Spain’s business sector held another meeting with the Government to reiterate its strong opposition against the new tourist taxes. The rules, including levies and behavior restrictions, are set to impact 90 million visitors in 2025. Brits make up the majority of tourists in Spain.
However, locals are growing increasingly frustrated with the impact of tourism, citing overcrowding and a housing shortage in popular spots. This has led to a series of protests in cities like Barcelona and Tenerife, prompting local authorities to implement stricter regulations. In the Balearic Islands, tourist charges could rise from £3.36 to £5.04 per person per night. Cruise ship passengers will see a dramatic increase in charges, up a huge 200% from £1.68 to £5.04 per person per night.
In Barcelona, the tourist tax will double by the end of 2025, reaching £12.40 per person per night depending on accommodation quality.
New beach rules are due to be imposed in Gran Canaria from March 2025, with fines up to £2,500 for breaking them. Banned activities include: playing music in sunbathing areas, using umbrellas for shade, reserving sunbeds and collecting shells or rocks.
Over in Majorca, the popular town of Sóller has introduced a “residents only” rule in its centre, restricting car access to locals only.
On Wednesday, tourism entrepreneurs from across the sector met with Juli Fernández, Secretary General of Economy and Finance, and Cristina Lagé, Director General of Tourism of the Generalitat to discuss the issue.
During the meeting, the tourism sector unanimously expressed its total rejection of the measures outlined in the agreement, including increased hotel charges.
They also repeated their request made in a previous meeting to the Councillor of Economy and Finance and the Councillor of Business and Labour for a comprehensive economic report to be conducted before proceeding with this initiative.
This report should determine “the negative impact that this decision could have on Catalonia’s tourism sector and visitor economy.”
The new measures are intended to “preserve the competitiveness and excellence of the destination” while addressing “the lack of constructive and empathetic dialogue from the Government.”