Japan may triple departure tax to tap surge in tourist numbers

 

NHK has learned that Japan's government and the ruling coalition are discussing plans to triple the country's departure tax. Lawmakers say the additional revenue could be used to tackle problems caused by overtourism.

The current tax of 1,000 yen, or more than 6 dollars, is incorporated into the price of air and other tickets. All travelers leaving the country pay the charge, including Japanese citizens.

The international tourist tax generated 52 billion yen, or 330 million dollars for government coffers in fiscal 2024 that ended in March. Policymakers aim to raise the levy to 3,000 yen.

The discussions include lowering the cost of obtaining a passport for Japanese nationals to help offset the higher charge on citizens making overseas trips.

A proposal to raise the levy is expected to be included in tax reform guidelines for fiscal 2026, which begins in April next year.

nhk