The debate over the tourist tax keeps making headlines as political leaders clash over the policy. In Valencia, PSPV-PSOE and the People’s Party presented starkly different stances on the tax on overnight stays. The Socialists proposed restoring the rate they recommended for Valencia for the period March 1-19, arguing that the Fallas season is a key time for local activity. Meanwhile, regional PP president Carlos Mazón met with Hosbec and told business leaders that his party would abolish the tax and pursue a connectivity strategy aimed at unlocking new markets abroad. [Citation: Valencia political coverage]
Celebration
Support for the Fallas district’s tourist tax was voiced by Valencia’s PSPV and other city officials who said the levy, scheduled for March 1-19, aligns with the Fallas festivities. Borja Sanjuán, the city’s treasury chief and spokesperson for the Socialists, argued that the tax proceeds could support the very activities that define the Fallas world. He pointed to a strong surge in visitors this year and highlighted a proposal from Sandra Gómez, the vice mayor and mayoral candidate from the same party, that the funds collected should benefit workers and local services tied to Spain’s tourism sector. The message emphasized how Fallas economics rely on the influx of visitors and the city’s ability to host large crowds. [Citation: Valencia municipal statements]
University, mayors and tourism businessmen join ranks against the tax, warning it’s targeting Benidorm
Speakers argued that Valencia’s appeal goes beyond a single label. From a distance the city might appear modest, yet it thrives on the energy of thousands of visitors who fill its streets and venues. Critics stressed that a well-structured tax could support city life while enabling continued growth in hospitality and services. They described Valencia as a place where residents and travelers alike benefit from a thriving cultural and economic ecosystem. The conversation framed tax policy as a lever for making Valencia a top place to live and visit. [Citation: Local press coverage]
repeal
The Valencia PSPV perspective contrasts with Mazón’s account of the meeting with Hosbec, where the touring sector’s priorities were clear: end the tourist tax and cultivate a favorable fiscal environment that favors small businesses, hotels, night life, and commerce. A PP statement framed tourism as the engine of growth and warned that municipal policies under the Botànic alliance have created irregular and discouraging fiscal conditions that deter investment. Mazón’s stance suggested more aggressive action, including a redesign of incentives to attract visitors from abroad. The regional leader highlighted markets such as North America and parts of Northern Europe, noting direct flights from those regions to the Valencian Community and the importance of improving air connections to enlarge tourism demand. [Citation: PP briefing]
The regional scene also included commitments to social policy. Mazón announced forthcoming legislation and measures aimed at supporting the third sector and people with disabilities, following a meeting with representatives from the Spanish Committee of Disabled Persons. The emphasis was on broader economic and social resilience alongside tourism management. [Citation: Mazón press release]