Balearic Islands intervene: Government to regulate visitor numbers - opinions are divided

Rules, not powerlessness: The Balearics and the plan to limit visitors

In the late afternoon in Palma, on the Plaça in front of the cathedral, locals are now openly talking about it: too many buses, overcrowded beaches, diesel on the side streets. The regional government has now made clear that it intends to counteract. Tourism Minister Jaume Bauzà defended the government's line on Wednesday — it is about limits, regulation, and cooperation with the island councils.

What the numbers say

A recent survey by the tourism agency shows clear majorities in favor of restrictions: 75.6 percent of respondents think there are too many visitors per year. Almost two-thirds support restrictions on visitor numbers, cruises and accommodations. The opposition is especially pronounced for vacation rentals (80.5%) and rental cars (79.6%).

And one more thing: 67.6 percent support a higher eco-tax (Ecotasa) to promote sustainable offerings. Almost 90 percent want measures to desynchronize the season and distribute visitors to places beyond the classic resort towns.

Economy versus everyday life

The numbers show a contradictory picture: 86 percent see tourism as a key source of income, 74 percent associate it with qualified jobs, 77.2 percent with a larger leisure and cultural offering. At the same time, 78 percent complain of rising housing costs and 65 percent see a clear environmental impact.

Minister Bauzà emphasised the need to combine both: protect the population, but not harm the economy. Concrete steps should include negotiations with cruise lines, tougher checks on illegal offerings, and a provisional decree against new tourist areas. The island councils should develop additional rules — each island with its own note, according to the minister.

Criticism and concerns

Some voices from civil society criticized the survey and the proposed measures: not everything is legally enforceable, damages risks would hinder. Others say the government is not going far enough — they demand bolder interventions, for example in the conversion of multi-family houses or a stricter limit on day-trippers at Palma's port.

On the ground you can feel the mix of relief and concern. A cafe owner in El Jonquet said yesterday at half past nine over a latte: “We need guests, but not at any price.” An older taxi driver added dryly: “Rules are nice — but if they become too complicated, you lose time and customers.”

What next?

The debate remains open. The government promises dialogue with island councils, social partners, and the industry. For many residents it is clear: talking is not enough — action matters. Whether the announced measures are enough will show at the ports, on the streets, and in the rental market. Until then it remains a local, but also political struggle for balance.

What you might notice: fewer knee-jerk decisions, more paperwork and regulations, perhaps a bit less mass tourism in sensitive areas. And: Many people on the island will be watching closely in the coming months.