The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has urged Barcelona to reconsider its proposed increase to the cruise tourist tax announced in May, after Mayor Jaume Collboni proposed doubling the levy for overnight cruise passengers from €4 (R75) to €8 (R150) per night.
The proposal contrasts with the City Council’s original July 2025 plan, which outlined a gradual €1 (R19) annual increase through to 2029, when the tax would have reached €8 (R150).
WTTC President and CEO, Gloria Guevara, said the increase could undermine Barcelona’s competitive position among Mediterranean cruise destinations.
“Barcelona has achieved remarkable success over many years, establishing itself as a global leader in tourism. However, we are concerned that these significant achievements, along with the widespread economic benefits they bring to the local community, could be inadvertently undermined by this increase.
“Additional costs to visitors would likely reduce the overall economic contribution generated by the cruise industry as tourists adjust their spending habits ashore.”
WTTC said Barcelona was already experiencing a broader decline in international travellers due to global economic pressures. “Recent trends point to a softening in demand, including a 3,3% decline in 2024 in transit cruise passengers, while modest international spending growth projections of just 2,7% in 2025 place the city behind other major European destinations.”
Further barriers could create wider pressure across the tourism ecosystem, from local suppliers to transport providers.
“Rather than implementing these taxes, we recommend that local government work closely with the tourism sector to find balanced solutions that support both the city's sustainability goals and its vital economic interests.”
