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Balearic roadworks at risk as Iran conflict drives up tarmac prices
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 08:23:53Construction firms in the Balearics have warned that the ongoing conflict involving Iran is driving fuel costs higher, potentially putting numerous infrastructure projects in the archipelago at risk if the situation persists. This surge in energy prices is causing a notable increase in key material costs, especially tarmac, which plays a fundamental role in road construction and maintenance.
Tarmac's sensitivity to oil market fluctuations is particularly pronounced during crises like the current disruption caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Gulf Coast refineries. This is because its main ingredient, bitumen, is directly derived from crude oil. Additionally, tarmac is bulky and heavy, requiring specialised transport vehicles, which adds to expenses amid rising fuel prices affecting logistics.
\"It will be the first material to reflect the crude oil price rise,\" says Sandra Verger, manager of the Balearic Builders Association linked to CAEB. While cement, steel, aluminium, and ceramics are also expected to become more expensive, none are likely to experience the rapid price increase predicted for tarmac. \"Because of bitumen, the price hike will be automatic in this case.\" Although the construction sector has highlighted impacts mainly on housing developments, concerns are also rising for critical infrastructureprojects, particularly in roadworks.
Authorities prepare for budget adjustments amid rising costs
Sources at the Council of Mallorca confirm that road department officials have been alerted by construction companies about anticipated budget challenges. Consequently, they are drafting a report assessing how the Middle Eastern conflict might affect ongoing and planned road infrastructure projects on the island. The Consell, along with other island councils, may need to significantly adjust project budgets to prevent tenders from being abandoned or partially completed if the crisis continues.
Several important works are currently underway or pending tender throughout the island. Active projects include the reinforcement of the road between Peguera and Port dâAndratx (â¬5 million); the civic road and roundabout at Crestatx-Sa Pobla (â¬3 million); comprehensive renovation of the Bunyola-Orient-Alaró road (â¬5 million); and the refurbishment of bridges on the Sant Llorenç des Cardassar bypass to prevent flooding (â¬9.2 million). Projects in tender or about to start include the Camp de Mar to Peguera civic road (â¬1.3 million); improved access to Llucmajorâs waste treatment plant (â¬1 million); and the Santanyà variant at sâAlqueria Blanca (â¬12 million).
Major investments focused on Palma's access improvements
There is also an investment totalling â¬164 million spread over a dozen projects aimed at enhancing access routes in Palma. Significant undertakings include strengthening the pavement on the VÃa de Cintura between the airport motorway and Valldemossa road (â¬11.6 million); upgrading accesses to the Son Hugo interchange with an additional lane between the Inca motorway and Valldemossa road (â¬13 million); and a larger-scale work with the first section of the second ring road (â¬110 million).
The Council is drawing on experience from similar situations such as the response to the Ukraine invasion in 2022, when it activated a â¬44 million emergency plan under then-president Catalina Cladera. This included a â¬5 million allocation specifically aimed at offsetting material cost rises in road network projects.
Implications for protected housing initiatives
The oil crisisâs impact on the construction sector also threatens the local plan to boost protected housing. Data from the Official College of Architects of the Balearic Islands (COAIB) shows that 555 protected homes were approved in 2025, comprising 266 official protected multi-family units (VPO), 267 limited-price multi-family units (VPL), and 22 limited-price single-family homes. The Housing Ministry states that project planning consistently accounts for price trends, particularly under global pressures such as the ongoing Iranian conflict.
Mallorca beach bar demolition approved after years of legal delays
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 13:50:00The Son Moll beach bar, a longstanding structure on this famous beach in Capdepera, will be demolished ahead of the summer season. The Capdepera town hall is complying with the Ministry for the Ecological Transitionâs directive to dismantle the existing fixed construction and plans to install a new removable beach bar this year.
During the regular council meeting on Thursday 12 March, the plenary approved a budget amendment of â¬48,398 to cover the demolition costs. The mayor, Núria GarcÃa, stated, \"A demolition project has been commissioned, and funds have been allocated for its execution. Following the necessary procedures, the demolition will proceed promptly.\" If there are no unexpected delays, the removal is expected to take place in April.
According to ministry sources, the current structure is located in the maritime-terrestrial public domain and operates under an old concession that expired years ago and cannot be renewed. In 2009, the reversal acts were signed, and the Ajuntament committed to removing the building. The process has taken many years to reach this stage.
Denunciation and official actions
The Balearic Ornithological Group (GOB) filed a complaint on 9 August 2024, alleging the \"illegal exploitation\" of the beach bar and urged the Coastal Demarcation authority to close the unauthorised operation.
Following this complaint, the Ministry formally requested the Capdepera town hall to enforce the demolition order. In December 2025, the council promised to continue with the required procedures and to carry out the dismantling of the building.
Plans for a new temporary installation
The mayor explained that the intention is to replace the demolished structure with a new, removable kiosk on the same site. \"Parallel to the demolition, authorisation has been sought for a temporary installation, which the same concessionaire will operate as stipulated in the tender documents,\" GarcÃa added.
In October 2025, GOB reiterated that the activity had not been halted despite earlier complaints and no official response was provided. They also pointed out that on 11 June 2024, seasonal permits were granted for six beaches, but the Son Moll kiosk was not included in the list. The ecologists highlighted that \"although the town hall lacked authorisation to operate, it went ahead with licensing and awarding the contract.\" After years of inactivity, the demolition is now set to proceed.
Fuel prices in Mallorca today: find cheapest petrol stations with our interactive map
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 08:43:00Fuel costs for drivers in Mallorca continue to attract attention following recent instability in international oil markets linked to tensions involving Iran. Across the island, the gap between the cheapest and most expensive filling stations can exceed ten pence per litre, meaning drivers who shop around may reduce their regular fuel bills. A price map included with this report illustrates where fuel is currently cheapest, highlighted in dark green, and where drivers are likely to pay the most, marked in red.
Check the fuel price map here
Energy specialists say a range of global influences are affecting prices, including political tensions in oil-producing regions and movements in the international benchmark Brent Crude. These factors determine the base cost of fuel before it reaches local forecourts. However, the price drivers ultimately pay is not identical everywhere, as individual petrol stations operate with different pricing policies and running costs, which can create noticeable variations even between stations located close to one another.
Lower prices are often found at filling stations on the outskirts of Palma and in several inland municipalities such as Inca, Manacor and Sa Pobla. By contrast, forecourts situated in busy tourist zones, near the airport or in central parts of Palma tend to charge more. Higher property costs and a steady flow of visitors who may be less sensitive to price differences are among the reasons commonly cited for this pattern.
Several elements combine to determine the cost of each litre of petrol or diesel. The starting point is the global crude oil price, followed by the cost of refining crude into usable fuel. Taxes imposed by the Government of Spain and regional authorities â including the Special Hydrocarbon Tax and Value Added Tax â make up roughly half of the final pump price. Distribution also plays a role, as fuel must be transported from refineries to storage facilities and then delivered to individual service stations.
Retailers then apply their own margins depending on business strategy and operating expenses. Large oil brands and independent operators alike consider staffing, maintenance and additional services when setting prices. Lower-cost stations, commonly located in industrial estates or on the outskirts of towns, often reduce margins in order to attract a higher volume of customers.
Why bottled gas prices are about to rise â' and why the increase hasnât hit yet
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 08:48:37Escalating conflict in the Middle East has severely disrupted global supplies of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), including butane. Attacks and restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for Middle Eastern exports, have driven up international butane quotations higher, with levels reportedly exceeding $480 per tonne in early March. Bottled butane in Spain continues to be regulated by the Spanish government, so sudden market shocks have not not immediately affected the maximum retail price (PVP). This protective mechanism has delayed the pass-through of costs, keeping the current price stable while international pressures build. Until now, that is.
When the next bottled gas price review takes place
Government reviews of the butane price occur bimonthly, with the upcoming update scheduled for mid-March 2026. Authorities typically publish the new maximum price in the BoletÃn Oficial del Estado (BOE) (official state gazette) around March 16, with the new adjusted rate applying from the following day, likely March 17. This revision will be the first since the conflict intensified in late February, exposing the regulated price to the full force of elevated raw material costs.
Buy your butane cylinders before the price hike.
The advice is to stock up on your 12.5 kg orange butane cylinders immediately. The current regulated price stands at â¬15.58 per bottle. With international LPG markets reaching extremely high prices due to the crisis, experts expect an upward adjustment in the forthcoming review, potentially reaching the maximum allowed 5 per cent cap, pushing the price to around â¬16.36. While the individual household might not be affected too dramatically, businesses, such as restaurants, are going to feel the pinch.
Some forecasts even suggest figures could go even higher if the war continues much longer, though the cap limits extreme jumps in this cycle. Getting supplies now locks in todayâs lower rate and avoids queues or shortages that often follow these announcements. Days after the outbreak of war, many service stations in Spain were faced with queues for butane and propane bottles, and local supplies ran out rapidly.
How the Middle East conflict has already hammered other fuels
Petrol and diesel prices at Spanish pumps have climbed dramatically since late February. Unleaded petrol has risen roughly 12 per cent, averaging around â¬1.71 per litre, while diesel has leapt over 22 per cent, reaching about â¬1.76 per litre in recent days. Natural gas benchmarks like Dutch TTF futures have doubled at peaks before settling higher, inflating household heating and electricity bills. Broader energy volatility comes from disrupted Gulf shipments, low storage levels, and competition for alternative supplies.
By how much could bottled gas rise in the next review?
Expect up to 5 per cent, the legal maximum per bimonthly update in Spain. Unregulated or free-market options from brands like Repsol or Cepsa already trade higher and may reflect increases sooner.
How long will prices keep climbing?
Duration depends on the conflictâs progression. Prolonged disruptions could sustain upward pressure through subsequent reviews (May onwards), though de-escalation or alternative routes might ease costs. Government monitoring hopes to curb speculation, but a continuation of high international LPG prices risk further adjustments.
What to expect next?
Energy markets are still volatile with ongoing Middle East tensions and blockages of the Strait of Hormuz. Households which rely on bottled gas for cooking, heating, or hot water should factor in much higher bills if the crisis drags on, potentially adding noticeable costs over winter. Government measures to cushion impacts may come out, but proactive stocking will offer the best immediate protection against the impending rise.
Spain weather flip: Snow, polar cold and strong winds set to sweep the country this weekend
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 09:10:08Spain is about to see a dramatic shift in the weather. After several days of calm and mild conditions, a powerful Atlantic front followed by a surge of polar air is set to hit the country this weekend, bringing snow to parts of northern Spain, heavy rain in the northeast and the Balearic Islands, and a sharp drop in temperatures across large areas of the peninsula.
Spainâs national weather agency AEMET has already issued alerts in several regions ahead of the sudden change. For many residents and expats who have grown used to the recent stable weather, the weekend could feel like winter returning almost overnight.
The system is expected to begin affecting the country from Saturday, March 14, when an Atlantic front crosses the Iberian Peninsula and allows colder air from the north to push southwards.
Heavy rain and snow likely across northern Spain
According to forecasts, the arrival of the Atlantic front will bring widespread rainfall across northern Spain and the Balearic Islands, with some areas facing particularly intense conditions.
The regions expected to see the heaviest rain include Asturias, Cantabria, northeastern Catalonia and the Balearic Islands. In these areas, rain could become persistent and occasionally heavy, with the possibility of thunderstorms or small hail.
As the colder air moves in behind the front, snow will begin to fall across northern Spainâs mountain regions.
The snow level is expected to start the day at around 800 to 1,000 metres in northern areas. As temperatures drop further, the level may fall even lower in some places, particularly in eastern parts of the country.
This means significant snowfall is possible in mountain ranges across the northern half of the peninsula, including the Pyrenees and other elevated areas.
While most snowfall will remain in the mountains, nearby regions could see lighter accumulations or colder, wintry conditions.
Winds strengthen as polar air pushes into Spain
Alongside the rain and snow, strong winds will also become a key feature of the weekend weather.
Northwesterly winds are expected to intensify across the peninsula and the Balearic Islands. Some areas are likely to experience particularly strong gusts.
The Ebro Valley could see powerful cierzo winds, which are well known for creating sharp temperature drops and difficult travel conditions.
Further east, the Empordà region of Catalonia and northern parts of the Balearic Islands may be affected by strong tramontana winds.
In southern coastal areas, especially around the Strait of Gibraltar and the Alboran Sea, forecasters warn of very strong westerly winds.
Even inland areas could experience gusty conditions, especially near mountain ranges and Mediterranean coastal zones.
For many people living in Spainâs coastal regions, the combination of wind, rain and colder air will make the change in weather particularly noticeable.
Temperatures set to drop sharply across the country
Perhaps the most striking feature of this weather shift will be the sudden fall in temperatures.
AEMET warns that maximum daytime temperatures will drop significantly across many parts of the peninsula and the Balearic Islands, with the most dramatic changes expected in northeastern Spain.
In some areas, the drop could be described as extraordinary, especially when compared with the relatively mild conditions seen earlier in the week.
Minimum temperatures will also change, although the pattern will vary. Overnight temperatures could fall slightly in northeastern regions while remaining somewhat milder in parts of southwestern Spain.
For expats living along the Mediterranean coast or in inland regions, the change may feel abrupt after several days of spring-like weather.
What expats living in Spain should expect
For the large international communities living across Spain â' particularly in areas such as Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands and northern coastal regions â' the forecast means a weekend of much cooler and more unsettled conditions.
Those living near the mountains or planning travel into higher elevations should keep an eye on local forecasts, as snowfall could affect roads and transport routes.
Even in coastal areas, the strong winds and cooler temperatures could make outdoor plans less comfortable than earlier in the week.
However, this type of sudden shift is not unusual during the late winter period in Spain. Cold air masses from northern Europe occasionally move southwards when Atlantic weather systems pass through the peninsula.
Meanwhile in the Canary Islands
While mainland Spain deals with colder weather, the Canary Islands will experience a different pattern.
The islands remain under the influence of the trade winds, known locally as alisios. These winds may strengthen at times, producing occasional strong gusts.
Forecasters also expect the calima â' the Saharan dust haze that recently affected the islands â' to gradually weaken.
Some light drizzle could appear in northern areas of the mountainous islands, but overall conditions are not expected to be as severe as those forecast for mainland Spain.
A reminder that winter isnât quite finished
After several days of calm weather, this weekendâs forecast is a clear reminder that winter conditions can still return suddenly across Spain.
The arrival of polar air behind the Atlantic front will bring snow in northern mountains, strong winds across coastal regions and a noticeable drop in temperatures across much of the country.
For residents and expats alike, the best advice for the weekend is simple: keep an eye on weather updates, prepare for colder conditions and expect a return to winter â' at least for a few days.
Roy Trevor Removals: Established in the UK since 1918
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 08:00:18Roy Trevor Removals, operating in Spain under the Spanish company name, Moving Matters SL, has enjoyed unprecedented success and repute on the Costa del Sol for 34 years. The company is run by sisters Julea and Ruth and their professional team, who bring charm, finesse and a wealth of experience to the business.
Roy Trevor Removals are an international removals and storage company, and their Spanish depot, located in Mijas Costa, has a long history of dedicated customer service, fair pricing and the knowledge to cater to their clientsâ needs.
The company operate their own fleet of vehicles, offering regular services to the UK, Europe and removals further abroad. They have a long-serving team of professional and experienced removal men. All of the work is done by Roy Trevor employees, guaranteeing their mark of excellence in terms of service.
The Mijas Costa depot not only provides every type of moving service â' collection, packing, local, European and International moves â' they also have three extensive warehouses with over 300 containers, which can cater for both short and long-term storage requirements.
In addition, Roy Trevor Removals has expanded to encompass secure archive storage solutions for any business or organisation under the banner of DataSpace España. Providing barcode tracking, daily retrieval service, secure storage for control of confidential physical data, this side of the business is also fully-licensed and has all the required Data Protection certificates to operate. (LOPD accredited) A service tailored to Lawyers, Accountants, Notaries etc.
Since 2009, DataSpace España, whilst being one of the foremost archive storage centres on the Costa del Sol, are constantly updating their methods and technology, allowing them to pinpoint the exact location of all files stored within their secure facility â' thus ensuring an efficient, space-conscious and safe way to store paperwork for businesses freeing up valuable office space and man hours.
Roy Trevor Removals in Mijas Costa are a family owned company that really do provide a personal touch to their services. Julea, who has run the company since its inception in 1992, knows her business inside and out. Providing a free no obligation site survey, her straight forward approach and honest advice ensures that decisions are made swiftly and her clients have realistic expectations of their move to and from Spain. It is this individual and practical approach to each move and to each client that has earned Roy Trevor Removals phenomenal and long-lasting success in the Spanish side of its operations.
Tel. 951 311 118 / 951 311 123
Website. www.moving-matters-sl.com
2 bedroom Apartment for sale in S'Agaro with pool – ⬠375,000
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 09:01:15Magnificent apartment located in S'Agaró, just 400 meters from the town center and a short walk from Sant Pol Beach. The property, in excellent condition, features two double bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a living room with access to a terrace, a separate kitchen that could be integrated into the living room, and a 10sqm utility room/storage area. It has centralized air conditioning (heating and cooling) for year-round comfort. The apartment is a corner unit and boasts abundant natural light, with south, east, and west exposures, allowing for plenty of natural light and ventilation⦠See full property details
S'Agaro, Girona
Click here to read more News from The Olive Press.
WATCH: Terrifying moment Spanish cyclist slips and nearly falls off cliff while out with her dog – amazingly captured on both 360 AND pet cameras
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-14 08:39:43THIS is the terrifying moment a Spanish content creator riding a mountain bike nearly slid down a sheer rock face â' with the heart-stopping scare caught on camera by her pet pooch.
Cecilia Sopeña was cycling along a rocky path with her dog when she briefly lost her balance and tumbled over.
READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE: Former Swedish kayak champion, 63, who braved raging flood waters to rescue his dogs âwould do it againâ â' and hits back at Jerez mayor for labelling him âirresponsible
The influencer, who has more than half a million followers on Instagram, slid several metres down the mountainside before finally coming to a halt.
The whole episode is visible from two different angles â' a 360-degree camera attached to her bike, and a device strapped to her canine friend.
READ MORE: How to avoid a fine under Barcelonaâs new civic rules â' from street boozing and public urination to dog pee and going shirtless
After coming to a standstill, Sopeñaâs hound rushes down the cliff to offer her assistance.
âThe first thing Iâm going to do is hold the bike properly, but first I have to stop shaking,â she can be heard telling herself.
Videos of the incident have quickly gone viral online.
Click here to read more Spain News from The Olive Press.
Americans in Europe: US finally slashes citizenship renunciation fee
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 10:01:02The US State department on Thursday announced that the fee for renouncing US citizenship will be cut by 80 percent, ending a six year legal battle by Americans living abroad.
The State department has now formally filed a final rule cutting the cost of renouncing citizenship, known as a Certificate of Loss of Nationality (CLN), from $2,350 to $450.
In a statement, the department said: \"After significant deliberation, taking into account both the affected public's concerns regarding the cost of the fee and the not insignificant anecdotal evidence regarding tax-related difficulties many US nationals residing abroad encounter, including in part because of FATCA, the Department made a policy decision... to propose alleviating the cost burden for those individuals who decide to request CLN services by returning to the below-cost fee of $450.\"
READ ALSO: 'I feel alienated': American dual nationals in Europe ready to renounce citizenship
\"This action is being taken to help alleviate the cost burden for those individuals who decide to request CLN services by returning to the below-cost fee that was in place from 2010-2014,\" it added.
However, Americans abroad impacted by the ruling should note the effective date of implementation will be April 13th 2026, as the ruling specifies that the change will officially enter into force 30 days after publication.
This means that those with a renunciation appointment before April 13th will be charged $2,350.
The new $450 fee will apply to appointments on or after that date.
Long legal road to renouncement fee cut
The US authorities first said back in 2023 that they were âproposing to amendâ the fee, viewed by many Americans abroad as unreasonable, in response to concerns that âmembers of the public have continued to raiseâ since the price was hiked from $450 in 2014.
Figures from the Association of Accidental Americans (AAA), a pressure group pivotal in the campaign, show that since that 2023 update, 8,755 individuals have paid the full $2,350 fee, over $20.5 million in income in total.
The AAA has welcomed the decision, claiming the \"victory is the direct result of six years of relentless legal action and advocacy.\"
\"As Thomas Jefferson stated in 1779, voluntary renunciation of one's nationality is a natural right inherent to all men. The U.S. administration is not above its own Constitution. This fee reduction is a concrete first victory â but our fight to have the right to renounce recognised as a fundamental constitutional right continues,\" said Fabien Lehagre, founder and president of the AAA.
Because 'Accidental Americans' are US citizens by birth and due to the United Statesâ citizenship-based tax regime, they are deemed by the US to have tax reporting (and potentially tax-paying) obligations for as long as they live, even if they never set foot in the US.
For many Americans abroad these commitments â as a result of the US' Citizenship-Based Taxation (CBT) system â have been motivating factors in renouncing their US citizenship.
In its press release, the State Department recognised the tax complications faced by US nationals abroad, suggesting that the issue had been a major point of contention for the many Americans who contributed feedback to the consultation process.
\"The overwhelming majority of commenters⦠including some who did not comment on the proposed fee change at all, expressed frustration with the US system of worldwide taxation of its citizens and the expense associated with compliance with US tax laws. Many reported spending hundreds or thousands of dollars a year on tax professionals, even when they might have no U.S. tax liabilities,\" the statement said.
It also noted difficulties opening a bank account, getting a mortgage, or investing for retirement abroad, citing \"the not insignificant anecdotal evidence regarding the difficulties many US nationals residing abroad are encountering\" when trying to renounce citizenship.
In 2020, the AAA and Americans of 10 nationalities filed a complaint with a US court questioning the constitutionality of the $2,350 fee.
However, following the 2023 announcement of the department's intention to cut the cost, it never confirmed the decision.
Then, in June 2025, the AAA contacted Secretary of State Marc Rubio calling for immediate publication of the change, and finally, now, in March 2026, the decision has been confirmed.
READ ALSO: OPINION - Unfair tax policies for Americans abroad must change
Americans in Europe: US finally slashes citizenship renunciation fee
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 10:01:02The US State department on Thursday announced that the fee for renouncing US citizenship will be cut by 80 percent, ending a six year legal battle by Americans living abroad.
The State department has now formally filed a final rule cutting the cost of renouncing citizenship, known as a Certificate of Loss of Nationality (CLN), from $2,350 to $450.
In a statement, the department said: \"After significant deliberation, taking into account both the affected public's concerns regarding the cost of the fee and the not insignificant anecdotal evidence regarding tax-related difficulties many US nationals residing abroad encounter, including in part because of FATCA, the Department made a policy decision... to propose alleviating the cost burden for those individuals who decide to request CLN services by returning to the below-cost fee of $450.\"
READ ALSO: 'I feel alienated': American dual nationals in Europe ready to renounce citizenship
\"This action is being taken to help alleviate the cost burden for those individuals who decide to request CLN services by returning to the below-cost fee that was in place from 2010-2014,\" it added.
However, Americans abroad impacted by the ruling should note the effective date of implementation will be April 13th 2026, as the ruling specifies that the change will officially enter into force 30 days after publication.
This means that those with a renunciation appointment before April 13th will be charged $2,350.
The new $450 fee will apply to appointments on or after that date.
Long legal road to renouncement fee cut
The US authorities first said back in 2023 that they were âproposing to amendâ the fee, viewed by many Americans abroad as unreasonable, in response to concerns that âmembers of the public have continued to raiseâ since the price was hiked from $450 in 2014.
Figures from the Association of Accidental Americans (AAA), a pressure group pivotal in the campaign, show that since that 2023 update, 8,755 individuals have paid the full $2,350 fee, over $20.5 million in income in total.
The AAA has welcomed the decision, claiming the \"victory is the direct result of six years of relentless legal action and advocacy.\"
\"As Thomas Jefferson stated in 1779, voluntary renunciation of one's nationality is a natural right inherent to all men. The U.S. administration is not above its own Constitution. This fee reduction is a concrete first victory â but our fight to have the right to renounce recognised as a fundamental constitutional right continues,\" said Fabien Lehagre, founder and president of the AAA.
Because 'Accidental Americans' are US citizens by birth and due to the United Statesâ citizenship-based tax regime, they are deemed by the US to have tax reporting (and potentially tax-paying) obligations for as long as they live, even if they never set foot in the US.
For many Americans abroad these commitments â as a result of the US' Citizenship-Based Taxation (CBT) system â have been motivating factors in renouncing their US citizenship.
In its press release, the State Department recognised the tax complications faced by US nationals abroad, suggesting that the issue had been a major point of contention for the many Americans who contributed feedback to the consultation process.
\"The overwhelming majority of commenters⦠including some who did not comment on the proposed fee change at all, expressed frustration with the US system of worldwide taxation of its citizens and the expense associated with compliance with US tax laws. Many reported spending hundreds or thousands of dollars a year on tax professionals, even when they might have no U.S. tax liabilities,\" the statement said.
It also noted difficulties opening a bank account, getting a mortgage, or investing for retirement abroad, citing \"the not insignificant anecdotal evidence regarding the difficulties many US nationals residing abroad are encountering\" when trying to renounce citizenship.
In 2020, the AAA and Americans of 10 nationalities filed a complaint with a US court questioning the constitutionality of the $2,350 fee.
However, following the 2023 announcement of the department's intention to cut the cost, it never confirmed the decision.
Then, in June 2025, the AAA contacted Secretary of State Marc Rubio calling for immediate publication of the change, and finally, now, in March 2026, the decision has been confirmed.
READ ALSO: OPINION - Unfair tax policies for Americans abroad must change
Campaigners demand Orihuela Costa gets its own health zone as healthcare pressure mounts
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 00:00:00Date Published: 13/03/2026
Campaigners demand Orihuela Costa gets its own health zone as healthcare pressure mounts
With 30,000 registered residents and just one medical centre, Orihuela Costa's healthcare system is at breaking point
A local healthcare campaign platform is stepping up pressure on the city council to deliver proper public health provision for Orihuela Costa, submitting a formal document this week that sets out a series of urgent demands they say can no longer be delayed.
At the heart of the campaign is a call for Orihuela Costa to be recognised as its own basic health zone, something the platform argues is long overdue given that the area has around 30,000 registered residents, a figure that reportedly triples during the busiest periods of the year.
Despite that, the entire stretch of coast is currently served by just one primary care centre, meaning residents regularly have to travel several kilometres out of the area for tests, specialist care and rehabilitation.
To add insult to injury, Orihuela city, with a comparable permanent population, has two health centres and a dedicated specialist centre on its doorstep.
The platform is also calling for the existing health centre to be upgraded as an immediate measure, and for the construction of a second public health centre in the area, plans for which received a favourable report from the Regional Ministry of Health this week with an estimated budget of just under â¬8.9 million.
Perhaps most pointedly, the campaign is demanding that a plot of land in Lomas de Cabo Roig, which the City Council is understood to be intending to lease to private healthcare provider Ribera Salud for the construction of a private hospital, should instead be transferred to the Regional Ministry of Health and used for a second public hospital under the Torrevieja health department.
The platform argues that the shortfall in public healthcare in Orihuela Costa should not be used as a justification for expanding private provision, and that public taxes should go towards public services that are accessible to everyone.
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Mystery behind the flight of the Emir of Dubai's 747 which landed in Palma
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 08:21:29On Thursday, the Boeing 747-400F owned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Emir of Dubai, landed at Palma Airport.
The plane was on the tarmac for some three hours before taking off. It was believed to be heading for Miami. It had presumably stopped over to take on fuel, but there was mystery as to the circumstances of the flight.
No official explanation was given, but it is known that the plane, which was acquired in 2010 and carries no visible markings, is used to transport the Emir's racehorses. It was possible, therefore, that horses were being moved because of concerns about their safety.
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is also the prime minister and vice-president of the UAE. His horseracing interests are very well known. He was the founder of Godolphin, which has stables in Newmarket.
Government-owned enterprises he has launched include the Jumeirah Group. The Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa was recently sold to DHH Port Soller, S.L.U., a company belonging to the international investment group Dubai Holding LLC.
Rupee hits fresh intraday low of 92.49/USD amid crude surge near USD 100 per barrel
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 00:00:00By Nikhil Dedha
New Delhi [India], March 13 (ANI): The Indian rupee hit a fresh intraday low of 92.49 against the US dollar on Friday as Brent crude prices surged again to around USD 100 per barrel, putting renewed pressure on the domestic currency.
Currency experts told ANI that the rupee is likely to remain under pressure until there are clear signs of de-escalation in the ongoing geopolitical crisis, which has pushed global oil prices higher and strengthened the US dollar.
They noted that the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been intervening in the foreign exchange market to slow the fall of the rupee and prevent excessive volatility. However, experts cautioned that there is a limit to how much the central bank can intervene in the market.
K N Dey, a currency expert, told ANI that the rupee opened at 92.34/35 on Friday, reflecting continuing pressure due to rising crude prices.
'Rupee opened today at 92.34/35 showing signs of continuing pressure on Brent again around 100 with chances of further going up, Highly volatile with either side movement of 7 to 8 per cent intraday. Highly speculative zone,' he said.
Dey also highlighted significant foreign investor outflows from Indian equities this month, which have further weighed on the rupee.
'FII's have Net sold equities this month only in 8 trading days Rs. 46,000 crores roughly equal to US $ 5 billion going out. Huge outflows. Most of the Asian currencies have fallen. (Russian Ruble has gained),' he added.
He further pointed to concerns related to breakdown of supply chain management and the possibility of stop loss triggers in dollar-rupee positions. According to him, the previous day's high of the dollar-rupee pair in the non-deliverable forward (NDF) market stood at 92.49/50.
Dey noted that RBI intervention mainly works as a 'speed breaker' in the market rather than reversing the trend.
'The intervention acts only as a Speed Breaker. Dollar demand may also arise on account of Balance Sheet management. It's extremely impossible to say how far the Rupee's fall will extend,' he said.
Meanwhile, Ponmudi R, CEO of Enrich Money, said the USD/INR pair is currently trading near the 92.00-92.50 range, indicating sustained pressure on the rupee.
'The USD/INR pair is trading near the 92.00-92.50 range, reflecting continued pressure on the Indian rupee. Rising crude oil prices and safe-haven demand for the US dollar amid geopolitical uncertainty have placed emerging market currencies under pressure,' he said.
Ponmudi further noted that the technical chart structure for the currency pair remains bullish, indicating continued upward movement in the dollar.
'The chart structure remains bullish with a clear pattern of higher highs and higher lows,' he added. (ANI)
Spain to allow unions and NGOs to do residency paperwork on behalf of migrants
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 09:10:17The Spanish government has approved a new registry for specialist groups that work with migrants to allow them to complete paperwork and immigration procedures on their behalf.
The measure is expected to be mainly used by trade unions and NGOs and intended to reinforce the efficiency, transparency and legal certainty in the processing of immigration cases in Spain.
This is especially pressing in light of the Spanish government's recent decision to regularise over 500,000 undocumented migrants amid claims from police unions that the mass amnesty could \"collapse\" the immigration system.
IN DETAIL: How Spain's mass regularisation of undocumented migrants will work
By creating the Electronic Register of Immigration Collaborators, the government wants to enable trade unions and other social organisations to manage administrative procedures on behalf of migrants through online procedures.
This initiative aims to facilitate access to immigration processes and paperwork for groups traditionally involved in the support and integration of foreign nationals.
The register came into force on March 6th and offers an additional representation mechanism to those already provided for in current legislation.
Registration in the registry will be free of charge and valid for four years, renewable if the groups continue to meet the legal requirements.
Collaborating organisations must be up to date with their tax and social security obligations and neither they nor their legal representatives may have been convicted or penalised for offences related to their activity or for infringements of immigration, labour law or personal data protection regulations in the three years prior to the application.
In addition, applicants to the register must provide proof of at least two years' experience in providing support, advice, integration or administrative assistance to migrants or applicants for international protection.
All procedures managed under this register must be carried out electronically through the relevant ministry, in accordance with the conditions established by the Directorate-General for Migration Management.
Notably, the regulations expressly prohibit collaborators from charging fees or financial compensation for services provided to migrants within this framework, guaranteeing that the service is free of charge.
READ ALSO: 'Humanly impossible' - Staff call for more resources to tackle Spain's mass regularisation
3 bedroom Villa for sale in Santa Eulalia / Santa Eularia with pool garage – ⬠2,100,000
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 09:01:07Luxury modern villa in Cap Martinet â' sea views & private pool Nestled in the prestigious Cap Martinet area, this stunning modern villa has been recently renovated to offer an unparalleled living experience. Set in a peaceful location close to Talamanca Beach, the home seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with functional design, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking comfort and exclusivity. The 181 m² villa, set on a 300 m² plot, boasts high-end finishes and smart home features, ensuring both luxury and convenience. The property is spread over two floors. The main floor hosts⦠See full property details
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Costa del Sol newspaper 13 - 19 Mar 2026
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NASA spots huge Saharan dust cloud over Spain from space
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 08:05:28A striking new visual released by NASA has drawn attention to a phenomenon many people across Spain recently experienced first-hand: a vast cloud of Saharan dust drifting across Europe. Satellite data analysed by NASAâs Earth Observatory shows how a massive plume of desert dust moved north from Africa during the first days of March 2026, turning skies hazy and leaving behind the familiar âmud rainâ that coated cars, streets and balconies across parts of Spain.
For several days, the dusty haze hung over the Iberian Peninsula and much of western Europe, carried by strong winter winds from the Sahara. While many residents simply noticed unusual skies or dirty rainfall, the event looked very different from orbit â' where NASAâs monitoring systems captured the full scale of the atmospheric movement.
NASA satellite data reveals Saharan dust spreading across Europe
Using its GEOS atmospheric model (Goddard Earth Observing System), NASA recreated how the dust cloud developed between March 1 and March 9. The model combines satellite observations with atmospheric physics to track how particles move through the air.
The images show several large plumes of dust lifting from north-west Africa before being carried across the Mediterranean by high-altitude winds.
Part of the dust drifted westwards across the Atlantic Ocean, but another major stream travelled north, eventually reaching Spain, France and large areas of western Europe.
From space, the dust appeared as a broad brown cloud stretching across the region, explaining the murky skies many people noticed on the ground.
Residents reported the unusual conditions from southern Spain all the way to northern Europe, including southern England and even the Alps, where dust particles settled across mountain landscapes.
During the event, sunsets often appeared deeper red or orange as sunlight filtered through the suspended particles.
Why Spain often sees Saharan dust events
For people living in Spain, Saharan dust intrusions are not entirely unusual.
Meteorologists refer to the phenomenon as âcalimaâ, a weather event where strong winds lift fine sand and dust from the Sahara and transport it across the Mediterranean.
Spainâs geographical position makes it particularly exposed to these episodes. When certain weather patterns develop â especially strong winds combined with low-pressure systems â dust can travel thousands of kilometres north.
In this case, winter winds pushed vast amounts of dust into the atmosphere, allowing it to spread widely across the continent.
Although the particles are tiny, they can remain suspended in the air for days, affecting visibility and air quality before eventually settling back to the ground.
Storm Regina helped trigger Spainâs famous âmud rainâ
The dusty skies alone would have been noticeable enough, but another weather system turned the event into something even more visible on the ground.
The dust cloud arrived in Europe at roughly the same time as Storm Regina, a low-pressure system that moved across the Iberian Peninsula in early March.
As the storm brought rain to parts of Spain, France and southern England, the moisture mixed with the suspended dust particles in the atmosphere.
The result was the phenomenon many residents recognise immediately: mud rain.
Instead of clear raindrops, the precipitation carried microscopic grains of desert dust, leaving behind a thin brown film on cars, windows and outdoor surfaces.
Across southern and eastern Spain in particular, residents woke up to find vehicles and terraces covered in a dusty residue after the rain passed through.
From space, the scale of the phenomenon becomes clear
While mud rain is familiar to many Spaniards, the NASA imagery reveals just how large these dust events can be.
Seen from orbit, the plume covered enormous portions of western Europe, stretching thousands of kilometres from its origin in the Sahara.
According to NASAâs Earth Observatory, these dust transport events are an important part of the planetâs atmospheric system.
Saharan dust plays several roles in the global environment. It can influence air quality, cloud formation and even ocean ecosystems, as minerals from desert sand eventually settle into the sea and act as nutrients for marine life.
However, when the dust concentration is high, it can also affect visibility and worsen conditions for people with respiratory problems.
A reminder of how connected Earthâs weather systems are
Events like this highlight how weather patterns in one region can have visible consequences thousands of kilometres away.
Dust lifted from the deserts of northern Africa can cross continents in just a few days, affecting skies across Europe and sometimes even travelling across the Atlantic.
For residents in Spain, the phenomenon may have felt like a local inconvenience â' cars suddenly coated in brown dust and skies looking strangely hazy.
But from space, the event tells a much bigger story.
NASAâs satellite observations show how a single atmospheric system can link the Sahara, the Mediterranean and Europe in one sweeping movement of air and dust, reminding us that the planetâs climate and weather systems are deeply interconnected.
And sometimes, what looks like a simple dirty rainstorm on the ground is actually part of a much larger spectacle unfolding high above the Earth.
We are proud to introduce our latest product â' UNITRON SMILE
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 08:00:44Come along on 26th and 27th March 2026 to Hotel Lo Monte. N-332 KM42.5, 03190 Pilar de La Horadada from 10:00 to 16:00 to experience this for yourself.
Unitron Smile arrives as a modern, discreet, and effective solution. This hearing aid not only amplifies sound but also restores confidence, allowing users to actively participate in conversations, enjoy the cinema, listen to music, and feel present in every moment. Designed with cutting-edge technology, Unitron Smile adapts to different sound environments and offers a natural hearing experience. Its compact size and elegant design make it almost invisible, but its impact on daily life is immense. It is not just about hearing louder, but also about hearing clearly again, with emotion and joy.
What to expect on the day:
Informal consultations to discuss your hearing problems, ranges from tinnitus, perforations and wax checks.
Video otoscope demonstrations to show the inside of your ears.
Demonstrations on Unitron Smile
Free no obligation hearing test â' places are limited so pre-booking is advisable to avoid disappointment
Refreshments and free gifts available
Additional tests also available
After the event at the hotel, we will also be conducting tests at our branches on the following dates:
Monday, 30th March: Pinar de Campo Verde â' Avenida del Pino 62, 03191 Pinar de Campoverde
Wednesday, 1st April: Cabo Roig â' Calle Isla Tabarca 15, La Regia, 03189 Cabo Roig
We invite everyone who has noticed changes in their hearing or those who have loved ones in this situation to take the first step. Checking your hearing is as important as taking care of your eyesight or monitoring blood pressure. In addition, with options like Unitron Smile, improving your hearing is more accessible than ever.
Whether you have never worn hearing aid or you already have one, come along to check this exciting new product. Reclaim the sounds you love. Rediscover the pleasure of hearing with Unitron Smile.
QUESADA â' Calle de Los Arcos 5, 03170 Ciudad Quesada
PINAR DE CAMPO VERDE â' Avenida del Pino 62, 03191 Pinar de Campo Verde
CABO ROIG â' Calle Isla Tabarca 15, La Regia, 03189 Cabo Roig
BENIDORM â' Avenida Doctor Severo Ochoa 7, Local 4, 03503 Benidorm
Axel Springer expands media empire with £575m Telegraph takeover
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 08:47:57Axel Springer has reached an agreement to purchase an iconic British institution, The Telegraph. The all-cash deal for the Telegraph Media Group is valued at approximately £575 million and includes ownership of the Daily and Sunday Telegraph.
These media outlets will join Axel Springers impressive portfolio, which includes owns Europeâs biggest newspaper, Bild, as well as digital brands such as Politico and Business Insider. By acquiring the Telegraph, Axel Springer strengthens its presence in English-language journalism and expands its influence across major international media markets.
Axel Springer beats out Lord Rothermere
The German enterprise proposed an extraordinary £575 million deal that overshadowed the rival £500 million offer from Lord Rothermere, owner of the Daily Mail. The purchase effectively ended a lengthy battle over the ownership of the newspaper group and brought three years of uncertainty to a close.
Telegraph staff are said to be put at ease, following three years of uncertainty since the Barclay family lost control of the group due to 1.16bn in unpaid debts to Lloyds bank. The titles were later put up for sale as creditors attempted to recover those debts, triggering a prolonged bidding process.
A three-year ownership saga comes to an end
The Telegraphâs ownership saga has been one of the most closely watched media deals in Britain. Since the Barclay family lost control of the company, several potential buyers attempted to acquire the group.
At one stage, the newspapers were linked to a proposed takeover by the Abu Dhabi-backed investment group RedBird IMI. However, that deal collapsed after the UK government moved to block foreign state ownership of British newspapers, forcing the group to sell the titles.
The sale process also involved scrutiny from regulators concerned about media plurality and competition, particularly when the Daily Mailâs parent company entered the bidding process.
The Telegraph Media Group employs around 900 people, including roughly 400 journalists, and remains one of the most influential voices in British journalism.
Mathias Dopfnerâs long-standing ambition for Telegraph acquisition
Mathias Dopfner, Axel Springerâs seasoned chief executive, has long desired a Telegraph takeover. The company previously attempted to acquire the newspaper in 2004 but ultimately lost out to the Barclay brothers, who bought the titles for £665 million. He has described the successful acquisition as the fulfilment of a decades-long ambition.
Dopfner emphasised that the publicationâs editorial independence and legacy would be preserved while investing in technology, including artificial intelligence, to modernise its journalism. Moving forward, the company will focus on a rapid digital and US expansion, with the company aiming to strengthen the Telegraphâs global reach.
If approved by regulators, the acquisition will mark Axel Springerâs long-awaited entry into the British newspaper market.
Drivers Cry Foul Over âCash-Trapâ Traffic Light in San Miguel de Salinas
PUBLISHED: 2026-03-13 06:23:31A controversial traffic-light camera in San Miguel de Salinas is sparking outrage after drivers claimed the system breaks traffic regulations and unfairly traps motorists into fines.
The red-light camera, at the southern entrance to the town on Calle Galant Delgado near Plaza de la Libertad, has issued hundreds of penalties of â¬200 and four licence points to drivers who cross on red. But motorists and lawyers now argue the device may not comply with Spanish traffic laws.
Drivers challenge fines
Several drivers have appealed their penalties, claiming multiple irregularities in how the traffic light operates and how the system was introduced.
Among the complaints:
No local traffic ordinance exists regulating the use of camera-controlled traffic lights.
Warning signs about the red-light camera are incorrectly placed and difficult to see.
The amber phase lasts just over two seconds, below the minimum three seconds recommended by Spainâs traffic authority (DGT).
Some drivers say they have even received multiple fines for the same location, with notifications appearing in Spainâs Official State Gazette (BOE).
A narrow road causing confusion
The light does not control a traditional junction but regulates two-way traffic along a narrow single-lane stretch of Calle Galant Delgado.
Drivers claim the road is so long that vehicles entering on green sometimes cannot clear the stretch before it turns red, leaving them automatically caught by the camera.
The street is a key access route to Orihuela Costa, Las Filipinas, Campoamor and Pilar de la Horadada, but many motorists are now avoiding it and taking the bypass instead.
Visibility concerns
According to traffic rules, warning signs for red-light cameras should be on the right side of the road in the direction of travel.
However, drivers approaching from Juan Carlos I Street and Miguel Hernández Street say the sign is mounted on the left side, partially hidden by trees, making it difficult to see.
Amber light âtoo shortâ
Drivers who measured the light claim the amber phase lasts barely two seconds, meaning motorists have little time to stop safely or clear the road before the camera triggers.
They also say the lights still display an outdated sign claiming they turn green when cars approach, which no longer functions.
Political row
The Town Hall (PSOEâ'IU coalition) insists the camera was installed because drivers regularly ignored the red light, and says violations have since dropped.
However, the Popular Party proposed removing the camera, arguing there was no accident history to justify such strict enforcement and accusing the council of relying on disproportionate fines rather than road safety measures.
The motion was supported by PP and Vox, but rejected by the ruling PSOEâ'IU majority.
Opposition councillors have also criticised the lack of transparency, noting that the contract with the private company managing the system is not listed on the public procurement portal, and the council has not revealed how many fines have been issued or how much revenue the system has generated.
The controversial traffic light continues to dominate conversation in the town, with more legal challenges expected from drivers caught by the camera.
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