Conference industry fears higher tourist tax: "We are driving away the wrong tourists"
Amsterdam plans to raise its tourist tax to 30 percent by 2031, prompting concerns from the conference industry that the move will drive away high-spending business travelers. While city officials argue the revenue is needed to manage tourism-related issues, industry leaders are warning of the negative economic impact and declining business event attendance.
The city of Amsterdam plans to increase its tourist tax from the current 12.5 percent to 30 percent by 2031, a move that would result in the highest rate in the world. Leaders in the local conference industry, including executives from the RAI and the Beurs van Berlage, argue that this drastic hike will deter business travelers, a demographic that contributes significantly to the economy while causing minimal public disturbance. Statistics from ABN Amro indicate that business travel to the city has already dropped by 38 percent compared to 2019 levels.
Conference organizers contend that business visitors often stay for multiple days and spend up to 1,000 euros per day, providing substantial economic benefits. Despite these concerns, city councilor Melanie van der Horst has stated that the administration will not reduce taxes for business visitors, citing a need for funds to manage general tourism-related issues. While officials expressed a desire for continued dialogue with the sector, the policy remains unchanged for now.
Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
