The Jalisco Congress is currently evaluating the potential impact of a proposed fee targeting foreign tourists visiting Puerto Vallarta. Tonatiuh Bravo Padilla, coordinator of the Hagamos bench in the Jalisco Congress, emphasized that the new charge must receive legislative approval before it can be implemented.
On November 15, the Vallarta City Council, responding to a request from Mayor Luis Ernesto Munguía of the Green Party, approved the inclusion of a new tax in the Municipality’s 2025 Income Law. The proposed fee would impose a charge of 1.25 Units of Measurement and Update (UMA), equivalent to 135.71 pesos, on foreign visitors for the use of services, goods, and public spaces over the course of one year.
For the tax to become law, it requires endorsement from the local Legislature. This has sparked debate among lawmakers, with differing opinions on the feasibility and potential repercussions of the fee. MC Deputy Gabriela Cárdenas has called for a thorough review of the arguments supporting the charge, while Morena Deputy Marta Arizmendi has indicated that her bench is prepared to oppose the tourist fee.
“We are reviewing the impact that this would have on the tourism sector and on the influx of visitors, and also on the example that would be set for other municipalities that have the same conditions,” stated Bravo Padilla. He further added, “We are already concluding an analysis. In the next session of the Finance Commission, we will listen to opinions and ask the president (Gabriela Cárdenas) to schedule it so we can discuss it.”
Highlighting the need for comprehensive evaluation, Bravo Padilla noted that all new contributions, including the proposed tourist fee, require detailed analysis. “For us, every new contribution is the subject of a detailed analysis,” he affirmed.
Additionally, Green Party deputies Yussara Canales and José Guadalupe Buenrostro have raised concerns about the new charge. They warned that beyond the Vallarta City Council’s responsibility for implementing the fee, the Legislature must meticulously examine the proposal to ensure its viability and fairness.
As discussions continue, stakeholders in Puerto Vallarta’s tourism industry are closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of the legislative review will determine whether the proposed fee will be enacted, potentially influencing tourism dynamics and setting a precedent for other municipalities with similar tourist profiles.
