The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) is urgently seeking discussions with the Mexico government after a new tax on cruise passengers. was passed.
The FCCA, representing member cruise lines, wants urgent reconsideration.
Cruise passengers will face an additional $42 per person in taxes on top of the current average of $20 in other taxes and fees the FCCA says is required to visit Mexican ports.
The association claims this effectively prices Mexican ports out of the cruise market.
The law was passed without consultation or any input from the cruise industry, it says.
This could disrupt the travel plans of over 10 million passengers expected to visit Mexico in 2025, it says.
“We appreciate President Sheinbaum’s assurance that the change will happen slowly and that she’s instructed federal officials to work with our industry, but we haven’t heard from anyone yet,” said FCCA CEO Michele Paige.
The FCCA says member lines are ‘eager to collaborate with the government to gain clarity on the details of this implementation and work together to chart a constructive path forward.’
“Mexico has long been a cornerstone of the cruise market, that has delivered significant economic benefits to both the industry and local communities,” said Paige.
“However, the unilateral decision to eliminate the in-transit tax exemption without engaging industry stakeholders undermines our partnership.”
The association says cruise ship calls generate over $1 billion in direct spending annually and support more than 20,000 jobs across various sectors.
The FCCA wants Mexican officials to engage in immediate dialogue to address industry concerns.
“Joint efforts between the government and the cruise industry are essential to creating sustainable growth that benefits all parties,” Paige added.
“We are hopeful we can work together to find solutions that preserve Mexico’s vital role in the cruise market.”
