Mototaxis Fight for Legal Status in Cozumel and Isla Mujeres

Cozumel, Mexico — Representatives of the Revolutionary Workers' Confederation (COR) have publicly called for the full legalization of mototaxi services in Cozumel and Isla Mujeres, citing a lack of political will as the primary obstacle to progress. Noel Gallegos Bautista, COR’s general secretary, stated that approximately 150 mototaxis currently operate in Cozumel, distributed among three formally recognized organizations: the Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM), the Revolutionary Workers' Confederation (COR), and the Usococ group. All three have received authorization from the State Mobility Institute (Imoveqroo) and the local municipality.

Push for Legal Recognition

Gallegos Bautista emphasized that the organizations are not opposed to regulation but seek full legal recognition. He criticized the recently approved mobility law for excluding the islands, leaving operators without formal status.

“We are not against regulation—what we want is 100% legal recognition. The mobility law that was passed did not consider the islands. They simply sidelined us,” Gallegos Bautista said. “We want to be included in the forums where laws are discussed, because that’s where decisions are made.”

Union leaders have held meetings with Wilbert Batún Chulim, president of the State Congress’s Mobility Commission, but have seen little progress.

“He tells us he will follow up and do what he can, but so far, we haven’t seen any results,” Gallegos added.

Census Underway to Assess Compliance

Imoveqroo is conducting a census to verify the number of operational units statewide and determine which meet service requirements. Meanwhile, mototaxis remain a vital transportation option in Cozumel, where traditional taxis are expensive due to fuel costs and logistical challenges in transporting vehicles to the island.

“Taxis in Cozumel have focused heavily on tourism, leaving local residents underserved. Mototaxis have filled that gap by offering a more affordable and practical service tailored to the island’s needs,” Gallegos explained.

Call for Comprehensive Policy

The COR leader stressed that legalizing the service must be part of a broader public policy addressing the unique conditions of Quintana Roo’s islands. He urged authorities to prioritize the issue to provide legal certainty for both operators and passengers.