Donaire Told the That Barcelona Wants to Stabilize Growth Rather Than Expand Indefinitely, and He Plans to Limit

Donaire told The New York Times that Barcelona wants to stabilize growth rather than expand indefinitely, and he plans to limit accommodation supply to curb demand. He also advocates for higher cruise ship taxes to deter day-trippers and wants tourist tax revenue invested in services benefiting both residents and visitors. The city has already stopped renewing holiday rental permits, aiming to convert 10,000 flats back to residential use by 2028, and has raised tourist taxes to €10-€15 per person per night. Cruise terminal capacity will drop from seven to five, reducing daily passenger maximums from 37,000 to 31,000. Donaire emphasized the priority is residents' right to live in the city, even as tourism generates 13 percent of its revenue.