CANCÚN, Quintana Roo — The National Action Party (PAN) in Quintana Roo has officially rejected the proposed increase to the Derecho de No Residente (DNR)—a tax on non-resident visitors—for 2027, arguing that the hike fails to address the root issues facing the region’s tourism industry.

During a press conference in Cancún, PAN leadership presented a comprehensive tourism plan aimed at restoring the state’s competitiveness. The party argued that simply increasing taxes on visitors will not solve critical problems such as the sargassum seaweed infestation, safety concerns, or the lack of adequate air connectivity.

Key Policy Proposals

To support the tourism sector and the local economy, the PAN announced several legislative initiatives to be debated during the 2027 Economic Package discussion:

• Tax Relief for Workers: The elimination of the Income Tax (ISR) on the annual bonus (*aguinaldo*) for workers earning less than 12,000 pesos per month.
• Strategic Reinvestment: A proposal to allocate 65% of the DNR revenue specifically toward tourism promotion and the development of tourism municipalities.
• Sargassum Mitigation: A demand to allocate 60% of the DNR revenue to combat sargassum, ensuring that funds directly benefit the beaches and destinations receiving international visitors.

Criticism of Infrastructure Projects

The party also took aim at the financial performance of the Maya Train. Federal deputy Ernesto Sánchez Rodríguez highlighted reports indicating that the project has incurred daily losses exceeding 25 million pesos. He called for a re-evaluation of federal investment priorities, urging the government to ensure that infrastructure projects generate tangible returns for the state.

Economic Crisis in Local Commerce

The conference also highlighted a growing economic crisis for local businesses. Abelardo Vara Rivera, a prominent local hotelier, shared the difficulties faced by the private sector in maintaining operations amidst a challenging season.

Similarly, Playa del Carmen local deputy José Luis “Chanito” Toledo Medina warned that the municipality is in a critical state. He reported that the local government lacks sufficient funds to cover payrolls and that approximately 150 tourism-related businesses have already been forced to close.

Looking Ahead

Reyna Tamayo Carballo, president of the state party, affirmed that the PAN will continue to defend the interests of the families who call this state home. “The PAN is ready to provide the surprise and continue defending the people of Quintana Roo,” she stated.