Mexico Approves $42 Cruise Passenger Tax

The Mexican Congress has approved a controversial $42 immigration levy for every cruise passenger docking in Mexico, which has sparked outrage within the cruise industry. This new fee, effective from 2026, will apply regardless of whether passengers disembark or remain onboard, making Mexico potentially one of the most expensive cruise destinations in the Caribbean. Two-thirds of the collected funds are earmarked for the Mexican army, raising concerns about the lack of investment in port infrastructure and tourism development. Critics, including the Mexican Association of Shipping Agents, argue that this move could severely undermine Mexico's competitiveness compared to other Caribbean ports. The ruling Morena party's push for this tax is viewed as a desperate attempt to address budget deficits and finance various projects, many of which involve military construction. The decision has ignited calls for the Senate to reconsider the measure amid fears of a detrimental impact on tourism.