Despite understanding some of the concerns from the hotel industry, Vicent Marí, President of the Consell of Ibiza, has come out in support of increasing the Sustainable Tourism Tax, known as the ecotax, during the peak summer months of June, July, and August.
Marí, a member of the Partido Popular (PP), believes that the island must take advantage of this period of high tourism to invest in long-term projects that address the effects of overcrowding. “This is a moment of prosperity,” Marí noted, referencing the record tourism seasons of 2019, and the subsequent strong years of 2021, 2022, and 2023. He emphasised the need to adopt a broader perspective. Therefore, he views the tax increase as an opportunity to fund initiatives that protect Ibiza’s fragile environment.
Balancing seasonal tax adjustments
Marí’s comments align with recent announcements by Marga Prohens, President of the Balearic Government. She proposed seasonal adjustments to the ecotax as part of a forthcoming decree on urgent measures to tackle tourism congestion. To encourage off-season tourism, the proposal includes a reduction of tax during the quieter months of December, January, and February. Prohens also stated local residents would be exempt from the ecotax through deductions in the regional portion of their income tax.
Protests from hotel sector
While the hotel sector has pushed back against the increase, accusing the government of unfairly targeting regulated tourism, Marí views the tax as essential. He stressed that the ecotax should be allocated specifically to address the issues caused by mass tourism. Among these are water management, public transport, and heritage preservation. Marí added that there is a “significant infrastructure deficit” on the island that needs funding. Additionally, tourists should contribute towards the upkeep of Ibiza’s natural and cultural resources.
Tackling illegal tourist rentals
Furthermore, Marí highlighted the Consell’s intention to press for legislative changes to enable faster enforcement against illegal tourist rentals. Currently, authorities must wait for judicial approval to shut down unauthorised tourist activities in residential properties. Marí argues that this process should be streamlined, allowing immediate action without lengthy legal delays. He asserted that any future increases in tourist capacity would be strictly regulated. Any new permissions would be contingent upon an exchange system to ensure no net growth in beds.