Mexico to Introduce $42 Cruise Passenger Fee Starting in 2025

The new fee, which eliminates a long-standing exemption, is expected to impact Mexico's cruise tourism industry and fund the Mexican army.

Mexico's Congress has approved a $42 fee for every cruise passenger, effective January 2025, removing an exemption for those considered 'in transit.'
Two-thirds of the revenue generated by the fee will go to the Mexican army, with only one-third allocated to port improvements.
Tourism and cruise industry leaders warn the fee could make Mexican ports among the most expensive in the world, reducing competitiveness with other Caribbean destinations.
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association predicts potential losses of up to 10 million passengers and 3,300 ship calls in 2025 due to the fee.
Mexican officials defend the measure as necessary for addressing budget deficits, while some local tourism representatives express concerns over limited benefits to communities.