The legal excursion companies in Arona and Adeje have reached their limit. They are fed up with paying taxes, fees, and contributions, only to see illegal operators stealing their business, clients, and revenue. These illegal operators don’t comply with the necessary requirements, such as obtaining a tourist intermediation license, having premises, or legally hiring workers. Instead, they set up kiosks in public spaces, offering lower prices to tourists.
In response to this unfair competition, the Association of Tourist Intermediary Companies of Tenerife (Adeturi) plans to stage a protest. The legal companies will march to the same public spaces where the illegal operators operate, attempting to attract clients in the same way. This action is scheduled for next week unless the authorities remove the illegal kiosks by then.
Adeturi explains that these illegal operators continue their activities with impunity, as they face minimal consequences and fines that don’t deter them. This situation has already resulted in a significant loss of turnover for the legal companies this summer.
Adeturi has engaged in negotiations with the municipal head of Security, Alexis Gómez Álvarez, who has shown a cooperative attitude. However, the legal process to address the issue is time-consuming, leaving the law-abiding companies vulnerable and disadvantaged.
ARONA AND ADEJE: PASSIVITY IN THE FACE OF IMPUNITY
The problem arose during the pandemic when certain individuals took advantage of the legal vacuum and confusion to engage in excursion sales without licenses and compliance. Although the authorities initially acted to address the issue, the problem resurfaced after the local elections.
Adeturi raised their concerns during a plenary session of the Arona Town Council, calling for urgent support and measures to stop the illegal sale of tourist activities on public land. They highlight the need for swift action to protect the legitimate businesses and maintain the integrity of public spaces, which belong to all citizens.
