According to the Nikkei, there have been calls within the Japanese government to strengthen taxation on foreign tourists visiting Japan, including the cancellation of consumption tax exemptions and the increase of departure taxes.
According to reports, the Japanese government and the Liberal Democratic Party have proposed requiring foreign tourists visiting Japan to pay taxes. The options under discussion include the cancellation of consumption tax exemptions for goods purchased in Japan and the increase of international tourist taxes levied upon departure. While this can ensure fiscal resources without increasing the burden on voters, it may also curb inbound consumption.
According to reports, Japan established a departure tax in 2019 and used the funds to expand and strengthen tourism infrastructure. Japan's departure tax is 1,000 yen (about US$7) per person. As for other countries that impose departure taxes, the United States imposes a departure tax of US$22.20, Egypt is US$25, and Australia is about US$45.
Currently, the ruling and opposition parties are striving to reduce the burden on families before the Senate election and avoid proposing fiscal measures that will impose new burdens on voters.
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