Reactions against the increase in taxes
The recent decision of the Catalan government to increase the tourist tax has generated an intense debate among the actors in the tourism sector of Tarragona. The Business Federation of Hospitality and Tourism (FEHT) has expressed concern, warning that this measure could erode the region’s competitiveness in the face of other more attractive destinations.
Divergent opinions of local leaders
In contrast to the Feht stance, the Mayor of Salou, Pere Granados, has welcomed the increase with satisfaction, emphasizing the need for the funds generated directly to the municipalities instead of being managed by the Generalitat.
An increase that can be devastating
Xavier Guardià, a spokesman for the FEHT, has revealed that in some situations, the rate could triple, from three to ten euros. “This accounts for 25% of the cost of a room during the low season,” he said. In addition, Berta Cabré, president of the organization, has criticized that the rate has become an “easy collection tool” by the authorities.
An equitable rate
Cabré said that the calculation of the rate is not done depending on the price of the room or the season, but it is applied as a fixed rate. “Recording the same amount in times of maximum demand and in times of low is incomprehensible,” he said. Entrepreneurs are at a crossroads: absorbing the cost or moving it to customers, in danger of losing visitors in favor of other places.
Differences in the impact between regions
Guardian has criticized the Government for its lack of foresight, arguing that the impact of this fiscal change will not affect Barcelona in the same way as the lesser known destinations. “Barcelona has an attractiveness that is not affected by the competition, but the coastal and interior locations are,” he said.
Perspectives on future surcharges
Regarding the possibility that councils could apply a surcharge of up to four euros per room, Guardian has stated that, although there are no known plans at present, the experience indicates that administrations often take advantage of any opportunity to increase their income.
An uncertain future for tourism in Tarragona
Cabré recalled that since the creation of this tax a decade ago, authorities have raised more than 80 million euros from tourist establishments in Tarragona. However, it has expressed concern that the obtained funds will no longer be used only for the improvement of tourism, but that the councils will be able to use them for other purposes.