The Federation of Business Owners of Hospitality and Tourism of Las Palmas (FEHT) has expressed its agreement with the ruling that annuls the tourist tax on overnight stays approved by the Mogán City Council. This judicial decision supports the employers' association's stance, which argued that the measure implemented by the council effectively acted as a levy rather than a fee, taxing mere stays without a specific public service justification.
The FEHT emphasizes that its challenge was aimed at defending legal certainty and tax equity for the sector. It reminds that the creation of new taxes falls under the purview of state or regional legislators, not local administrations. The tourism sector is already a major contributor, providing around 40% of public revenue through the IGIC and generating thousands of jobs.
The Federation maintains that establishing double taxation mechanisms is inappropriate, especially when tourist accommodation is already subject to a 7% IGIC. The now-annulled tax imposed an additional fiscal burden, impacting the sector's competitiveness and Canary Islanders who stay in the islands' establishments.
The tourism employers' association reiterates its willingness to collaborate with public administrations to enhance the quality and sustainability of tourist destinations. The FEHT has supported the implementation of fees for visiting natural spaces, justified by specific services and conservation needs. Shared objectives, they conclude, must be achieved through respect for current legislation and ongoing dialogue between institutions and the business sector.
