Background on the Issue
The Asociación Mexicana de Agencias de Turismo Receptivo, with a presence in Quintana Roo, Jalisco, and Baja California Sur, has denounced a recent transportation law imposed by the government of Baja California Sur. This law restricts tourist transport operators with federal plates from operating without a state permit, which the association claims is unconstitutional.
Previous Agreements and Current Situation
Previously, these transport operators were required to report their pre-contracted services to avoid conflicts. However, the current government has eliminated this agreement, forcing operators to revert to Article 6 of the state transportation law. This article mandates that permit-holding transport operators must obtain a state permit, which is often denied without valid reasons. The purpose of this denial is to hinder these operators from providing services, favoring the taxi guild instead.
Impact on Tourism and Quality of Service
Sergio González Rubiera, the national president of Amatur, explains that this situation compels tourists to use low-quality taxis, negatively affecting the destination’s image. The issue is exacerbated by inspectors who obstruct the movement of tourist vans, further benefiting connected taxi owners and harming Los Cabos’ tourism image.
Appeals for Resolution
Amatur has sought assistance from federal authorities, including the Secretariat of Tourism and the Secretariat of Communications and Transportation, to mediate with the state government. However, they have yet to receive a response.
There are concerns that without a swift resolution, tour operators may cease commercializing Los Cabos if the state continues to restrict their operations in favor of taxi guilds, leaving international tourists with no alternative.
Tourist Profile and Implications
González Rubiera emphasizes that the typical visitor in Los Cabos has a higher average purchasing power than any other region in Mexico. Consequently, denying them the option to hire luxury transportation provided by federal-plated operators is unacceptable.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the issue? The government of Baja California Sur has enforced a transportation law that restricts tourist operators with federal plates from operating without a state permit, which the tourism agencies claim is unconstitutional.
- Why is this a problem? This law forces tourists to use low-quality taxis, negatively impacting the destination’s image and favoring a connected taxi guild over independent transport operators.
- Who is affected? The typical tourist visiting Los Cabos has a higher average purchasing power than other regions in Mexico, making luxury transportation options crucial for their experience.
- What have the tourism agencies done? The Asociación Mexicana de Agencias de Turismo Receptivo has denounced the issue, sought assistance from federal authorities, and expressed concerns about potential consequences if no resolution is reached.
