The New Tourist Tax of Wales

A new tourist tax could be introduced in parts of Wales starting in 2027, if approved by the Welsh Parliament. The tax could add up to £1.30 per tourist each night, which could raise £33 million annually, supporting the tourism infrastructure. Local councils will decide if the tax is applied. People under 18 at hostels and campsites do not have to pay. Wales is not the first country to introduce a tourist tax; Japan, the Caribbean, and countries in Europe have charged fees to tourists.

Some areas, like Cardiff, Anglesey, and Gwynedd, have shown interest, while others, such as the Vale of Glamorgan, Newport, or Wrexham, have rejected the idea. The Welsh finance secretary, Mark Drakeford, says the tax helps fund essential services used by tourists. However, others, including the Welsh Conservatives and the Welsh Tourism Alliance, worry it could decrease the amount of tourism and jobs, and that the money raised may not be used mainly for tourism.

Good revision 🙂