Mexico’s Senate has approved a US$42 immigration fee for cruise ship passengers, sparking criticism from the tourism industry, which fears the charge could harm the country’s $500 million-per-year cruise sector.
The fee, which will take effect in 2025, eliminates a previous exemption for cruise passengers, who were not charged because they typically sleep aboard their vessels and some never disembark during port calls. Under the new law, all cruise passengers will be subject to the charge.
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The measure, part of a broader bill that also increases airport immigration fees and entry fees for nature reserves, has already been passed in the lower house.
Mexico’s Caribbean coast, particularly Cozumel, the world’s busiest cruise port, will be most affected. The National Confederation of Commerce, Service, and Tourism Chambers warned that the new fees could drive cruise operators to favor other Caribbean destinations.
“This could result in a significant decrease in visitors,” said Octavio de la Torre, president of the federation.
Critics also noted that two-thirds of the revenue from the new fees would go to the Mexican army, not toward improving port facilities or tourism infrastructure.
The Mexican Association of Shipping Agents raised concerns last week, stating: “If this measure is implemented, it will make Mexican ports of call among the most expensive in the world, severely affecting their competitiveness with other Caribbean destinations.”
The ruling Morena party has been seeking new revenue sources to address large budget deficits, partly driven by its major infrastructure projects, such as railways and oil refineries, many of which are being built by the army.
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While initiatives to limit cruise ship activity due to over-tourism have gained traction globally, Mexico’s Caribbean coast remains a hotspot for cruise tourism, with Cozumel welcoming about four million passengers annually. Industry representatives warn that the fee risks undermining this key economic driver.
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