Mexico, known for its bustling ports, has traditionally been a popular destination in the cruise circuit. However, this new levy, pending Senate approval, could redirect tourists to more cost-effective Caribbean destinations like Jamaica. According to the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), this tax could make cruising to Mexico “213% more expensive than the average Caribbean port,” potentially pricing Mexican ports out of the competitive cruise market.
The FCCA has expressed dismay over the lack of industry consultation, with FCCA President Michelle Paige criticizing the rapid and unilateral policy change. “We were completely caught off guard with last week’s unilateral decision to eliminate the long-standing in-transit exemption and efforts to fast-track this policy change without any dialogue with the industry,” Paige said. The association also highlighted the timing issue, noting that the majority of cruises for 2025 have already been sold, which complicates planning and creates uncertainty for guests.
Paige also cited the fast-approaching implementation as a cause of concern. “This gives us and our partners virtually no time to prepare and creates confusion and uncertainty for our guests because the majority of our cruises have already been sold for 2025,” she continued.
Unlike some global destinations where new fees are being introduced to manage overtourism and fund infrastructure improvements, two-thirds of the revenue from Mexico’s proposed tax would support the Mexican army, not enhance port facilities.
Tags: FCCA, Michelle Paige, Mexico