Residents in Majorca say they want more tourist taxes imposed on visitors, despite officials voting in favour of new levies early this year. In May, the People’s Party and Vox agreed to a tourism decree in a bid to curb the saturation of visitors on the islands, following two summers of protests. However, the agreement did not include an increase in the Sustainable Tourism Tax (ITS), or a new tax on rental cars or private vehicles, which are used by holidaymakers.
New polling now shows that the majority of residents in the Balearic Islands back to impose further taxes for tourists, saying that ITS needs to be increased. This would come as a major blow to British holidaymakers, with the islands in Spain being a popular destination for travellers throughout the year.
Data from an opinion poll, conducted by the regional government, shows that a staggering 67.6% of locals are in favour of raising the levy, with 38.7% of people ticking the ‘strongly in favour’ box.
Just 30% of people are opposed to the increases, the polling shows, reported by the Majorca Daily Bulletin.
Tax on tourists can vary depending on the type of accommodation they stay in – it can range from one to four euros per person, per night.
The money raised from the levies are used to finance environmental projects, improve tourism infrastructure and promote more responsible tourism.
In Majorca specifically, an overwhelming majority are in favour of increasing these taxes further. 74.6% of people who live there would hike up the levies, with 43.9% saying they ‘strongly agree’.
Across the other Balearic islands, such as Menorca and Ibiza, opinions show to be more divided. Only 39.1% and 46.9% respectively said they agreed with raising the IST further. Formentera had the highest percentage of residents who disagreed with increased taxes.
Currently the tourist tax’s maximum amount is £3.45 per night per person at five-star and four-star “superior” accommodation, with those under 16 being exempt.
Guests at four-star and three-star superior hotels are charged £2.59 during the summer. Outside of these categories, there is a £1.72 charge.