A significant increase in the tourist tax
Catalonia is embedded in a new chapter of its tourist policy with a significant increase in the rate that has caused debate between the different agents in the sector. The Government of the Generalitat, together with the commons, has agreed to double this rate, allowing the councils to impose an surcharge that can reach up to 4 euros.
Impact for tourists and accommodation
Until now, visitors staying on the Costa Dorada paid a rate that varied between 0.6 and 3 euros, depending on the type of establishment. With recent changes, prices can reach up to 10 euros per night in luxury hotels, if the municipal surcharge is applied.
Reactions of policy makers
David Cid, spokesman for the commons, argues that the increase is fair and proportional, saying that a tourist who pays between 400 and 500 euros for a room can assume an increase of 7 euros. CID argues that this decision is aligned with the trends of other European countries.
Destination of collections collected
Since its inception in 2012, the tourist tax has been destined for tourism equally between city councils and the Generalitat. Now, 25% of the income will go to housing, while the councils will have more flexibility to use funds in other areas, including economic promotion and competitiveness.
Cruises and their environmental impact
A key aspect of these regulations is the rate applied to cruises. The new regulation excludes cruises that remain less than 12 hours, allowing councils to apply higher rates to those with a greater environmental impact.
Tourism industry reactions
The Tarragona Business and Tourism Business Federation has expressed its concern about increasing the rate, arguing that this can affect the region’s competitiveness and to make tourists look for more economic alternatives. Xavier Guardià, spokesman for the entity, emphasizes that the increase can be 25% of the cost of a room in low season.
The City Council’s response
The reactions of the town councils have been diverse. Pere Granados, mayor of Salou, acknowledges the increase but believes that the councils should be able to allocate the funds to cover the expenses generated by tourism. On the other hand, Patricia de Miguel, Councilor for Tourism in Cambrils, believes that this increase can be detrimental to the competitiveness of the sector.
Future perspectives and negotiations underway
In Tarragona, the details of this surcharge are still being discussed, with a preliminary agreement with En Comú Podem. Jordi Collado, spokesman for the group, welcomes the opportunity to allocate the income to municipal services that benefit both tourists and residents.
Various opinions about the new rate
Carlos Brull, President of the Tourism Board of the Diputación, defends the increase in the rate, considering that it should not be an impediment to the tourism sector, but an opportunity to improve the conditions. So far, Altafulla is the first locality to confirm the application of the surcharge.
