Bhutan decreased tourism fee, why?
Tuesday, August 29, 2023
Travellersto Bhutan had to pay an extra USD 200 on a per night basis as part of the Sustainable Development Fee since September 2022. Now it will be reduced to USD 100. From September 1, 2023 this change is going to come into effect.
The main reason behind this measure is the fact that Bhutan restarted travel after thepandemic but even a year after, the country is struggling heavily to recover its tourism in a good manner and attract more globetrotters, says the Reuters.
The SDF in September 2022from the earlier USD 65 was increased to USD 200 a night in an effort to decrease the carbon footprint that touristscarry with them to the kingdom, as per the latest report. But, the charge appears to have caused a drop in the tourist numbers visiting Bhutan.
Bhutan is expected to boost tourism generated income, with the latest update.For four years, this new tax will remain applicable and will come to an end on August 31, 2027, as per a declaration by the Bhutanese government.
The statement explainsthat this tourist fee change is in view of the crucial role the tourism sector in making in creating more employment opportunities; grabbing foreign exchange and many more.