Mexico tourism fee hike threatens competitiveness

A proposed 35.8 percent increase to the Derecho de No Residente (DNR) fee, included in the 2026 Economic Package currently under congressional analysis, could significantly impact Mexico's tourism competitiveness. The increase would raise the fee from 983 pesos to approximately 1,334.80 pesos, an addition of about 20 USD per foreign visitor.

Analyses suggest the hike could lead to a loss of over 1.2 million international tourists annually, with approximately 610,000 of those being travelers from the United States. Major destinations such as Cancun, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Puerto Escondido, and Puerto Vallarta are identified as particularly vulnerable. Experts warn that this move may place Mexico at a disadvantage compared to Caribbean competitors like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Costa Rica, which maintain lower costs.

Business leaders, including representatives from Canaco, have called for greater transparency regarding how these funds are utilized. While the proposal aims to strengthen the National Institute of Migration (INM) through technology and infrastructure, officials argue that the increase must be accompanied by visible improvements in security, roads, services, and cleanliness to justify the higher cost to visitors.