Hawaii is considering imposing a $25 (about 34,000 KRW) tourism tax per foreign tourist, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 18th (local time).
According to the report, the Hawaii State Legislature is expected to approve a bill this spring to collect a flat $25 tourism tax from tourists checking into hotels or short-term rental accommodations. This tourism tax is a measure to protect Hawaii's natural environment, such as its beaches, and to prevent wildfires.
Governor Josh Green of Hawaii stated that it is a "small price to pay to preserve paradise," and that the tourism tax will be used for disaster prevention and insurance, including establishing fire stations and installing firebreaks. He predicted that the introduction of the tourism tax would hold tourists accountable for preserving the natural environment and raise awareness of the impacts of climate change. The annual revenue from the tourism tax is estimated to be $68 million.
Last year, the Hawaii State Legislature also considered requiring tourists to purchase a $50 permit to visit state parks and beaches but abandoned the plan. However, following the Maui wildfires that killed more than 100 residents and severely damaged the natural environment, the tourism tax is being reconsidered for reconstruction and preservation efforts.
Other famous tourist destinations in countries such as Greece and New Zealand also impose tourism taxes ranging from $1 to $100. Bali, Indonesia, has been charging all foreign tourists about $10 this month to promote sustainable tourism. Venice, Italy, has imposed a daily entrance fee on day-trippers to prevent environmental damage caused by a surge in tourists. The island nation of Palau charges foreign tourists a $100 fee to encourage responsible ecotourism and preserve the natural environment.
Currently, the Hawaii State Legislature is also considering raising hotel taxes in addition to the $25 tourism tax per person. However, WSJ reported that the hotel industry is opposed to such increases. The number of tourists who visited Hawaii last year is estimated to be over 9.5 million.
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