Quintana Roo Transport Union Prepares Bid for 20% Fare Increase

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Members of the UNTRAC transport union are preparing a financial assessment and formal proposal to seek a fare increase of at least 20 percent, citing rising costs of supplies in Quintana Roo and across Mexico.

Gabriel Arroyo Jalpa, the union’s general secretary, said the increase would help operators get through the final months of the year and meet their obligations in 2027.

He said the union has held several meetings with members to determine whether they can continue absorbing higher costs or whether it is time to request higher fares.

“The economic situation really is very poor,” Arroyo Jalpa said. “We are willing to hold out and cover the rising prices, taxes and fees with our own resources, but conditions are difficult and we have to find a way to keep working.”

He noted that the economic pressure affects members differently, from dump truck operators who haul materials to taxi and mototaxi drivers who mainly serve rural communities.

Arroyo Jalpa said the union is compiling a study with all the relevant data so that the Quintana Roo Mobility Institute (IMOVEQROO) has the information it needs to decide whether a fare increase is feasible.

He argued that any adjustment should be at least 20 percent to offset higher fuel and spare parts prices, as well as taxes and fees.

So far, he said, operators have not been forced to suspend service, largely because most are concession holders who do not pay rent, which helps them cover operating costs on their own.

Even so, he acknowledged that the outlook is not encouraging, since the electoral process begins next year and many activities slow down for lack of funding.

“That is why we want the candidates to listen to us and take into account the transporters in the municipalities and rural communities, and to see what we need,” he said.