Ecotax in Mallorca: Increase Approaching

Political turnaround makes higher costs for vacationers more likely

In Palma you can already feel the debate: conversations at Plaça, voices in the cafés on Passeig-Mallorca — everyone is talking about a possible increase of the so-called ecotax. What seemed unthinkable a few months ago is suddenly on the agenda. Representatives of the major parties signal approval for an increase during the peak season.

What it's really about

The idea: In summer the charge per night should rise by around two euros. According to politicians, the goal is to secure revenues for sustainability projects and infrastructure — and at the same time to manage the flow of visitors. Some speak pragmatically, others somewhat cynically. I met a taxi driver this evening at 19:30; he said: 'If it helps relieve the roads, okay — but then we also have to see results.'

New charge for brought-in vehicles?

Parallel is consideration of another charge: fees on the import of vehicles by ferry. The model is not new — on other islands there is something similar — and could reduce the number of cars brought along. On the street you hear voices saying this has long been overdue; others see problems for tradespeople and commuters.

Party representatives such as Iago Negueruela demand concrete measures against the growing influx: With 19 million visitors annually, he warned, it can't just continue as before. Prime Minister Marga Prohens shows openness to discussion and points to the Mesa de Sostenibilidad, the Sustainability Council — proposals are to be negotiated there now.

In the end: the ball is now in the political court. For locals it means hope for less congestion; for tourists perhaps a few more euros per night. Whether the increase actually happens will be decided in the coming weeks at the negotiating tables — and, as always, between ambition and everyday life.