The Welsh Government has revealed plans to introduce a 'tourism tax' from 2027, which will add an extra £4-£6 per night for families of four staying in Wales.
Visitors staying overnight in Wales will face this new charge, ranging from £4 to £6 per night, as part of the government's "tourism tax" initiative.
The fee, known as a visitor levy, will apply to all overnight stays, including Airbnbs, holiday cottages, B&Bs, hotels, hostels, and campsites. Even Welsh residents travelling for leisure or business within the country will need to pay the charge.
The tax will be split into two levels: guests staying in hostels or campsites will pay 75p per person per night, while those staying in other accommodation types will pay £1.25 per person per night.
Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford described the levy as a "small contribution with a big impact," explaining that the funds will help improve facilities like public toilets and parking, which benefit both locals and visitors.
Each of Wales' 22 councils will decide whether to introduce the levy in their area, but many are expected to take up the option due to the potential financial benefits.
If every council implements the levy, they could collectively generate an extra £33 million annually. The earliest start date for the charges would be 2027, after consultations take place locally.
However, the Welsh tourism industry has strongly opposed the plan, fearing it could deter visitors. Welsh Conservative MS Peter Fox criticised the tax, calling it "wrong" and warning it could harm the sector with more bureaucracy and job losses, reports North Wales Live.
Peter Fox argued: "The Welsh Government should be supporting the tourism industry, not holding it back with new taxes."
The Wales Tourism Alliance has also voiced its concerns, highlighting that tourism and hospitality contribute billions to the Welsh economy and employ over 11% of the workforce. They believe the Visitor Levy is the wrong approach.
The Alliance stated: "This proposal will raise costs for tourism and hospitality businesses, which will then be passed on to visitors, without offering any clear 'added value.'"
Mark Drakeford, however, insists the levy is fair, arguing that tourists should contribute to the local services they use. He said: "Tourism is vital to the Welsh economy and culture. This policy aims to ensure its long-term sustainability."
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