Quintana Roo Launches Cruise Welfare Trust for Tourism Enhancement!

A new initiative, the Cruise Welfare Trust, has been set up to bolster the ports of Cozumel and Mahahual. The trust will be funded by a five-dollar contribution from each cruise passenger, beginning on February 24. The aim of this initiative is to enhance infrastructure and tourist safety. This aligns with the maintenance and management model of the Cancun Hotel Zone Trust, which began operations recently.

The Cruise Welfare Trust is part of an inclusive policy championed by Governor Mara Lezama. Quintana Roo's Tourism Secretary, Bernardo Cueto Riestra, explained that the state government is working with civil society representatives on this project. The Trust for the Strengthening of Tourism Activity in Quintana Roo (Foatqroo) has incorporated participation from various sectors, including business, hotel, commercial, restaurant, and residential. The state's Secretariat of Finance and Planning has set aside a budget of 226 million pesos for 2025 and 227 million for 2026. The intention is to add more federal resources to the initiative in the future.

The cruise trust is being developed in collaboration with the Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) and representatives of major shipping companies. This is the first time such a partnership has been established. The funds will be used to improve tourist infrastructure, enhance security, and establish the region's first state fund for natural disaster response. Collections will be made quarterly, and shipping companies will prioritize projects for implementation. This initiative is expected to benefit not only the destinations that receive cruises but also enhance the international reputation of Quintana Roo.

Concerning the proposed federal tax of 42 dollars per cruise passenger, set to be implemented in July, negotiations are ongoing between the Mexican Government and shipping companies. The aim is to reach agreements that benefit all parties and preserve Quintana Roo's status as a premier tourist destination. In February, the State Tourism Secretariat reported the arrival of 154 cruises to Quintana Roo. Over the course of one week, 28 waterfront hotels visited Cozumel and 18 arrived in Mahahual, highlighting the significance of the sector to the local economy.