Cozumel Rental Companies Face Unfair Competition from Unregulated Operators

Cozumel, Quintana Roo — Legal vehicle rental companies on the island of Cozumel are raising alarms about what they call unfair competition from unregulated operators and digital platforms that offer vehicles without proper permits or insurance, creating risks for tourists and economic harm for established businesses.

Luis Dzul Díaz, president of the Cozumel Rental Association, warned about the growing presence of these “pirate” rental operations and accommodation platforms that illegally rent out motorcycles and bicycles. “This directly affects us because we comply with taxes and regulations while they operate outside the law,” he emphasized.

Dzul Díaz explained that his association represents 22 companies with approximately 850 scooters and more than 1,500 cars, all registered with the Mobility Institute. The sector maintains average occupancy rates between 65% and 80% following a December rebound, with expectations of increased business during the upcoming Easter holiday period.

The association has identified at least five or six establishments that, in addition to renting apartments through digital platforms, offer motorcycles and bicycles without proper concessions or insurance coverage. “We cannot put visitors at risk. At least within the association, we work to stay current and avoid these irregularities,” Dzul Díaz stated.

While authorities have worked with the association to eliminate these practices, Dzul Díaz acknowledged they persist. He said the association remains vigilant because each member company supports multiple families while also protecting tourist safety.

Regarding improper practices within the legitimate sector, such as the use of overlapping license plates, Dzul Díaz said affiliated companies maintain updated registries and comply with regulations.

The business leader acknowledged they don’t have exact calculations of economic losses from unfair competition but insisted the impact is significant. He noted that piracy affects not just rental companies but all local commerce.

Dzul Díaz reiterated that the association will continue collaborating with authorities to stop illegal business operations and platforms offering unregulated vehicles, defending both tourist safety and the stability of local companies.