Mexico is set to introduce a new cruise passenger tax in 2025, aligning with a growing regional movement across the Caribbean and Latin America focused on sustainable tourism. This move places Mexico alongside countries like Barbados, the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Aruba, Costa Rica, and St. Lucia, all of which have launched similar initiatives.
The goal is clear: to ensure that tourism revenue is reinvested into protecting the environment, upgrading infrastructure, and preserving cultural heritage, making tourism growth more sustainable and resilient over the long term.
Why Tourist Taxes Are on the Rise
As global travel rebounds after the pandemic, many Caribbean and Latin American countries are adopting new tourist taxes to balance economic benefits with environmental and cultural protection. Mexico, one of the region’s top destinations, is now joining this trend by introducing a $42 cruise passenger fee starting in early 2025. 
The new tax, passed by the Mexican government in late 2024, will direct about two-thirds of the revenue to national security projects managed by the military. The rest will be used to modernize ports and upgrade coastal infrastructure.
While some cruise lines have expressed concerns about competitiveness, officials argue that the investment is critical to protecting coastal areas and supporting future tourism growth.
How Other Countries Are Funding Sustainability
Barbados has a tiered Room Rate Levy where hotel guests pay between $2.50 and $10 per night, depending on the accommodation. Funds are used for tourism marketing, airport upgrades, and cultural preservation.
The Bahamas increased its cruise departure tax in 2024 and added new environmental and enhancement fees. Revenue supports marine conservation and improves tourist facilities.
Dominican Republic charges a $10 Tourist Card fee, typically included in airfare. The money funds tourism infrastructure, marketing, and urban improvements.
Jamaica collects a $20 Tourism Enhancement Fee from visitors, which finances airport expansions, road projects, and cultural site preservation.
Aruba introduced a $20 sustainability fee for air travelers in 2024. Proceeds fund wastewater system upgrades and other environmental initiatives.
Costa Rica has long had a $29 departure tax that supports national parks, wildlife reserves, and eco-friendly transport.
Belize charges an exit tax of about $40, including conservation and border development fees to protect biodiversity and improve infrastructure.
St. Lucia uses a variable hotel tax ranging from $3 to $6 per night, funding beach maintenance, emergency services, and new tourism products.
A Shift Toward Sustainable Travel
Across the Caribbean and Latin America, countries are focusing less on the number of tourists and more on the quality and sustainability of tourism. Tourist taxes are being reframed as investments in better infrastructure, environmental protection, and resilience against climate change.
Whether it’s Mexico improving port security, Barbados preserving heritage sites, or Jamaica modernizing roads, the message is consistent: sustainable tourism is essential for the future.
What This Means for Travelers
For visitors, the financial impact of these taxes is relatively small—generally between $5 and $42—but the benefits are significant. Cleaner beaches, upgraded airports, safer travel experiences, and better cultural preservation all result from these investments.
Many countries are now being transparent about how these funds are used, giving travelers confidence that their contributions are making a real difference.
In Mexico’s case, the $42 cruise tax will help modernize ports and enhance coastal security, ensuring a better experience for future visitors.
Looking Ahead
As tourism demand continues to rise and climate challenges grow, Caribbean and Latin American countries are leading the way in creating a more responsible travel industry. Tourist taxes are becoming a key tool to balance growth with sustainability.
Mexico’s new policy signals a strong commitment to protecting its natural and cultural resources while ensuring that tourism continues to benefit communities and visitors alike.
For travelers, the message is simple: your investment today helps preserve the destinations you’ll want to explore again tomorrow.
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