Legal challenge hits Balearics ‘green’ tax

Report by Juliet Dennis

TOUR operators are ignoring a new ‘green’ tax in the Balearic Islands following a legal challenge by local hoteliers.

The tax, approved by the islands’ regional parliament, would be one euro a day – about 62p – for each tourist at a hotel or self-catering complex. The aim is to generate an annual £14 million to fund improvements to the islands’ infrastructure and environment.

Operators fear trade to Majorca, Ibiza and Minorca will suffer if the levy is introduced because of the price sensitive nature of the market.