Puerto Vallarta Introduces New Tourist Revenue System Designed to Fund Public Works, Upgrade Tourism Infrastructure, and Enhance Overall Visitor Experience

Puerto Vallarta is set to begin collecting a revised tourist contribution starting January, following modifications to meet legal requirements outlined by Mexico’s Supreme Court. The previous tax was annulled after being deemed vague and constitutionally insufficient, but the municipality has now restructured the measure to ensure clarity, transparency, and full compliance with the law.

The revised contribution is designed to generate funds for public infrastructure and tourism-related projects throughout the city. Officials clarified that the revenue will be directly allocated to projects that improve public amenities, strengthen tourism facilities, and enhance the overall visitor experience. By clearly defining the purpose of the contribution, authorities aim to provide transparency and avoid any uncertainty for travelers.

The original measure, approved in 2024, proposed a modest one-time annual fee of 160 pesos (around US $9) for foreign visitors. Despite its small size, the tax was projected to generate approximately 200 million pesos (US $11 million) annually, offering a substantial boost to the city’s budget for public and tourism-focused projects. However, the Supreme Court struck down the measure, citing imprecise language and unclear links between the fee and the services it was meant to support, which could allow arbitrary enforcement.

In response, the city reworded the regulations to explicitly connect the contributions to public works and tourism infrastructure. The revised regulation was promptly reviewed and approved by the state Congress, ensuring that the tax now meets legal standards. Authorities are confident that the updated language satisfies constitutional requirements, providing both legal certainty and transparency for visitors.

The collection process is designed to be simple, convenient, and non-intrusive. Information about the contribution will be made available at airports, cruise ship terminals, and hotels. Visitors can contribute through hotel lobbies, designated payment modules, or Treasury offices staffed by trained personnel. The process ensures that tourists are informed about the purpose of their contribution and can participate easily, emphasizing voluntary support for the city’s development.

The tax is framed as a contribution rather than a mandatory charge, highlighting its role in maintaining and improving Puerto Vallarta’s infrastructure and public spaces. Revenue from the tax will fund projects such as road maintenance, park upgrades, visitor amenities, safety enhancements, and improvements to transportation and tourism facilities. By directly linking contributions to tangible benefits, the municipality aims to provide visible improvements that enhance the experience for both residents and visitors.

The Supreme Court’s initial decision to annul the tax followed a constitutional challenge, which questioned the precision and clarity of Article 80 of the 2025 Revenue Law. The updated regulation now clearly defines the contribution’s purpose, linking it to specific services and infrastructure improvements. Authorities are confident that this ensures legal compliance and provides clear guidance for both the municipality and visiting tourists.

Beyond general public works, the funds will also be used to strengthen tourism-focused infrastructure. This includes upgrades to visitor centers, public transportation points, signage, safety measures, and other facilities that directly affect the visitor experience. By investing in these areas, Puerto Vallarta aims to accommodate a growing number of tourists while maintaining the quality and attractiveness of the destination.

The revised contribution reflects a broader strategy to promote sustainable tourism development. By establishing transparent guidelines and linking contributions to concrete projects, the city ensures that tourism growth benefits both visitors and residents. Clear communication and easily accessible information will help tourists understand the purpose of the fee and the direct impact of their contribution.

Authorities anticipate a smooth launch of the revised contribution starting in January. The additional revenue is expected to support numerous infrastructure and public space improvements while enhancing Puerto Vallarta’s position as a leading tourist destination.

With these measures in place, the city is set to implement the new contribution, combining transparent governance, sustainable tourism development, and improved public services. The initiative provides a reliable source of funding for projects that enhance Puerto Vallarta’s appeal and maintain its status as a world-class travel destination.

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