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Japan is preparing to significantly raise its international departure tax as part of a broader effort to curb overtourism and manage pressure on local communities. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s tourism policy panel approved a resolution on Nov. 13 calling for the tax to increase from 1,000 yen ($6.50) to 3,000 yen ($19) per traveler.
If adopted into the ruling coalition’s year-end tax policy outline, the higher levy could take effect as early as April, the start of Japan’s next fiscal year. The International Tourist Tax, applied to all outbound passengers regardless of nationality and typically included in airfare, generated 52.4 billion yen in fiscal 2024, according to the Japan Tourism Agency.
The proposal also suggests introducing a premium tier: passengers flying in business class or above would pay 5,000 yen. Supporters say the additional revenue will help fund measures to manage visitor flows, protect cultural sites, and sustain infrastructure strained by record tourist numbers.
While tightening its departure tax regime, the panel emphasized retaining Japan’s tax-free shopping system for foreign visitors — a policy considered crucial for encouraging spending and supporting local retail economies.
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