The Hotel Business Federation of Ibiza and Formentera has issued a statement expressing its disagreement and concern over the announced increase of the eco-tax in high season, as well as the recent additional surcharge proposed exclusively for Ibiza. The entity points out that the increase will disproportionately affect family tourism, an important segment for the economy of the islands, and criticizes the lack of information and dialogue on the part of the authorities. In its communiqué, the Federation explains that the Balearic Government had already announced in Parliament an increase in the eco-tax in high season, but without specifying the exact amount. “We think it will not be a few cents, but we still do not know how much it is,” says the Federation, noting that this lack of clarity generates uncertainty in the sector. In addition, they stress that this measure will punish visitors who choose to stay in legal offer and will especially affect families, who will have to assume a higher tax for each member of the group. The Federation also expresses its surprise at the island surcharge announced for Ibiza, an adjustment that, according to the entity, was communicated without prior notice or consultation with the actors involved. “We have found ourselves with the Ibiza island surcharge without knowing whether it will be 1% or 100%,” says the statement, insisting that this type of measure requires a clear justification and a specific investment destination on the island. In this sense, they stress that “the natural thing would be that what is collected in Ibiza is invested in Ibiza”, arguing that, with the collection of a single year, which is around 30 million euros, the investment of 22 million projected for the next three years would be far exceeded.
Suggestion to the island authorities
Finally, the Federation suggests that the Island Councils of Ibiza and Formentera should advocate for a total ban on tourist uses in multi-family buildings through a law in the Balearic Parliament. The entity considers that, in view of the growing concern about the lack of housing, it is essential to protect the residential use of the properties. The Federation concludes that, far from promoting tourism, this type of surcharges could put the Pitiusas at a disadvantage compared to other competing destinations in the Mediterranean.
