France unveils plan to triple tourist tax in Paris next year

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

tourist tax on hotel nights next year, coinciding with the city hosting the Olympics. The current tourist tax in Paris ranges from 0.25 euros to five euros per night, depending on the type of accommodation.

The government's plan to triple the tourist tax is part of its 2024 budget, set to be expedited through parliament without a vote before Christmas. The proposed increase, a 200-percent surge, is intended to contribute to funding public transport for the Olympic events.

Paris hoteliers have expressed strong opposition to the government proposal. The UMIH hotel and restaurant union and the GNC group of hotel chains jointly issued a statement condemning the move, stating that it poses a threat to the competitiveness of the hospitality sector and France's international image during the high-profile Paris 2024 Olympics.

Government estimates suggest that the tripled tax would generate 423 million euros annually, surpassing the 200 million euros initially deemed necessary for funding public transport. Catherine Querard, the president of GHR, a union representing the hospitality and catering sector, expressed concern that the increased tax rate could lead to a rise in hotel prices, placing blame on the industry.

Hotels have already adjusted their rates for the Olympic period, spanning from July 26 to August 11. President Emmanuel Macron's government, lacking a majority after the 2022 elections, plans to use article 49.3 of the French constitution to push through the 2024 budget without a parliamentary vote.

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