Edinburgh, Japan, and Thailand implement new tourism taxes

Several international destinations are implementing or planning tourism taxes to manage travel and fund local services.

In the United Kingdom, Edinburgh has implemented a 5% surcharge on accommodation services, applicable to hotels, hostels, and short-term rentals for up to five nights.

Japan has tripled its International Tourist Tax for travelers over two years old departing by sea or air. The fee has increased from 1,000 to 3,000 yen (approximately 16.50 euros) and is included in transport ticket prices.

Thailand is considering a tourism tax for implementation by April 2027. The proposed fee is expected to be around 450 baht (approximately 12 euros) per visitor. Unlike other models, this tax is intended to provide medical coverage for foreign tourists and fund destination promotion, security, and infrastructure rehabilitation.