Valentín Romero, interim president of the Balearic Business Association for Car Hire with and without Drivers (Aevab) and head of Casa Valentín in Ibiza, supports the Ibiza Council’s proposal to limit vehicle entry during the tourist season, drawing inspiration from Formentera’s existing restrictions. He emphasizes the need for a “well-founded” limitation, rather than a blanket ban, urging the council to swiftly gather data to set vehicle quotas and restriction periods. Romero highlights the congestion issues caused by summer vehicle saturation, attributing them to second homeowners and large rental fleets, including those brought in by external construction companies for resale. He criticizes the competitive edge these external companies have, offering lower rental prices and the tax advantages they enjoy. Despite these challenges, Romero notes the local rental sector hasn’t seen closures due to competition, attributing past business closures to retirement or fatigue. He also suggests that improving public transport could alleviate some demand for rental vehicles, offering tourists alternatives to personal car use. Romero observes a trend of wealthier tourists seeking lower-cost transportation options, and a shift in the tourist season’s timing influenced by nightclub openings and closings, rather than hotel operations. For the full article, please visit Diario de Ibiza website here.