The implementation of a controversial new $42 (860 pesos) per-person tax in Mexico has been postponed until July 1, 2025.
The tax, originally set to take effect on January 1, 2025, is part of Mexico’s revised Federal Law of Rights (Ley Federal de Derechos), which outlines various fees for tourism and immigration services.
The delay follows strong backlash from cruise industry groups, notably the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) and the Mexican Association of Cruises (AMANAC), both of which warned of serious economic fallout if the tax were enforced as planned.
Cruise industry leaders argue the tax could drive a significant drop in ship arrivals, discourage family cruise bookings, and ultimately reduce tourism income for local communities that rely on cruise-related revenue.
Michele Paige, CEO of the FCCA, thanked the Mexican government for listening to industry concerns.
“We thank the Mexican government for listening to our concerns and proposing a delay in the implementation of the tax that will fall mainly on American citizens. We look forward to the opportunity to continue meaningful dialogue around a balanced solution that protects Mexico’s communities, supports its vibrant tourism industry, and ensures the affordability of cruise travel for our guests.”
The six-month delay gives industry stakeholders more time to negotiate a compromise with the Mexican government. However, unless a new agreement is reached, cruise passengers could see the additional fee added to their holiday costs from next summer.
Background on the Cruise Passenger Tax
The $42 fee, officially known as a “non-resident” tax, was part of a broader amendment to the Federal Law of Rights, which governs fees charged by the government for a variety of services.
While the tax has existed since 1999, cruise passengers were previously exempt, as they are considered “in transit” and spend limited time ashore during port calls.
This exemption has been key to encouraging cruise lines to include Mexican ports of call in their itineraries. Without it, cruise passengers could face significant new costs — with a family of four looking at an extra $168 on top of their cruise fare, port fees, and other expenses.
The proposed tax would make Mexico one of the most expensive cruise destinations in the world, with port fees that are 213% higher than the average Caribbean port.
Given that many cruise guests already spend money ashore on excursions, dining, and shopping, industry groups argue the new fee will make Mexico less appealing and could result in a drop in passenger arrivals.
Cruise industry leaders, including the FCCA and AMANAC, voiced their concerns about the potential impact on local economies.
The FCCA estimated that a 15% reduction in cruise calls could result from the tax, as cruise lines may choose to avoid Mexican ports in favour of destinations with lower fees. Fewer ships would mean less income for local businesses, including tour operators, taxis, and retail vendors.
The Mexican Association of Cruises (AMANAC) also warned of “progressive drops in arrivals” that could hurt employment and impact the livelihoods of workers dependent on the cruise industry. They said the tax would “have a disastrous impact” on Mexico’s popular tourist destinations.
Industry figures also highlighted that Mexico was poised for significant cruise tourism growth, with over 10 million cruise passengers expected to visit in 2025.
Projects like Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club in Cozumel (set to open in 2026) and Perfect Day Mexico (near Costa Maya, opening in 2027) are examples of how cruise companies have been investing in the region. The imposition of a steep tax could hinder these developments before they even begin operating.
This surprise announcement left cruise lines with little time to adapt, leading to concerns that planned itineraries may have to be altered or cancelled.
With the six-month delay now confirmed, cruise lines, the FCCA, and AMANAC will work to negotiate a resolution that satisfies both Mexican authorities and cruise operators. Without changes, however, the fee will be implemented on 1 July 2025, and cruise guests may face higher costs for voyages that include stops in Mexico.
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Related posts
- Mexico’s Proposed Cruise Passenger Tax Raises Concerns Among Cruise Lines
- Royal Caribbean Announces Perfect Day Mexico, A New Private Destination Set To Open In 2027
- Cruise Ports In Mexico (With Map)
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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