Barcelona’s mayor, Jaume Collboni, has announced plans to raise the tourist tax for cruise passengers who visit the city for less than 12 hours. This initiative is part of his broader strategy to mitigate the impacts of mass tourism on the Catalan capital. The move aims to ensure that short-term visitors contribute more significantly to the city’s economy.
Efforts to Address Overtourism
Since taking office, Collboni, a member of the Catalan Socialist Party, has introduced several measures to curb overtourism and improve local living conditions. One of his major initiatives, announced four weeks ago, includes a plan to eliminate apartment rentals to tourists by 2028. This would involve revoking the licenses of the 10,101 apartments currently permitted for short-term rentals.
Impact on Housing and Local Life
The mayor’s actions come in response to widespread protests across Spain against the adverse effects of the booming tourist industry. Locals have expressed concerns about the strain on housing and the overall quality of life. By targeting short-term cruise passengers with a higher tax, Collboni hopes to alleviate some of these pressures and ensure that tourism benefits the city more sustainably.
Details of the Proposed Tax Increase
In an interview with El País, Collboni mentioned that the current tax for cruise passengers is €7 per day. He plans to increase this amount to ensure that the city adequately benefits from the influx of visitors who spend only a few hours in Barcelona. This adjustment is intended to create a more balanced and fair contribution from all tourists, regardless of the length of their stay.
Future of Tourism in Barcelona
Collboni’s measures signify a significant shift in how Barcelona manages its tourism industry. By focusing on sustainable tourism and addressing the challenges posed by mass tourism, the city aims to protect its residents’ quality of life while still welcoming visitors. The proposed tax increase for short-term cruise passengers is a step towards achieving a more equitable and sustainable tourism model for Barcelona.
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