This month, the Welsh Parliament will begin considering a new law that could introduce a tourism tax for overnight visitors in certain areas of Wales. The proposal would grant local councils the

power to impose a small "visitor levy" to generate revenue, which would help support tourism infrastructure and sustainability.

The bill also includes a registration scheme for accommodation providers, which the Welsh government argues is necessary to implement the levy effectively.

A statement by Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford and Economy Secretary Rebecca Evans confirmed that the levy and registration bill will be introduced to the Senedd on November 26. They explained, "The levy will raise additional funds for local authorities to support the long-term sustainability of our tourism industry," with each local authority empowered to decide if the levy is appropriate for their region.

The inclusion of a national accommodation register is aimed at establishing consistent standards across the tourism industry in Wales, supporting the levy and laying groundwork for a future licensing scheme. This registration is described as a "first step toward licensing," with the intention of creating a level playing field and ensuring visitors enjoy consistently high standards across Welsh accommodations.

Plans for a more extensive licensing system, encompassing all types of holiday accommodations, will be addressed in a separate bill, expected to be introduced within the current Senedd term, ending in mid-2026.

However, the Welsh Conservatives have voiced opposition, with party leader Andrew RT Davies stating, “A tourism tax will risk jobs at a time when businesses are struggling. This policy will impose additional bureaucracy and hinder the tourism sector.” He urged the government to support the tourism industry rather than burden it with new taxes. Photo by Seth Whales, Wikimedia commons.