How Mexico Limits Number of Electronic Devices Travelers Can Take Through Airports
How Mexico Limits the Number of Electronic Devices Travelers Can Take Through Airports
The Governor of Quintana Roo, Mara Lezama, has announced that Cancun International Airport will no longer charge travelers a fee for bringing more than one large electronic device in their luggage.
The change is effective immediately. "This was an old franchise regulation that no longer aligns with modern technology and the tourism sector, which includes frequent travelers attending conferences and meetings," said Lezama.
She expressed gratitude towards authorities for recognizing the need for this change to adapt to current realities.
Previously, business travelers flying to Mexico faced significant fees at airports if they brought multiple electronic devices. Reports indicated tourists were charged an average of $190 for any excess larger electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
According to Mexico’s Servicio de Administración Tributaria, travelers can bring only one large electronic device without incurring a fee, although they are allowed up to three mobile phones or other wireless devices. Failure to pay the tax often resulted in customs agents confiscating the extra devices.
U.S. travelers don’t encounter similar restrictions from TSA agents, which can lead to complications during customs checks in Mexico. David Ortiz Mena, President of the Tulum Hotel Association, noted that these electronic restrictions could harm Mexico's image as a tourist destination, saying, "If we aim to be a tourist powerhouse, we need to be consistent in our policies."
Two travel industry professionals shared their experiences with customs at Cancun International. Elite Travel President Tammy Levent reported being pressured to pay a fee of $170 just to bring in her iPad, while VIP Vacations President Jennifer Doncsecz recounted a similar issue with event materials she brought on a previous trip.
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