The Seychelles government has announced the introduction of a Tourism Environmental Sustainability Levy (Tourism Environmental Sustainability tax), which came into force on August 1. This bold decision aims to preserve the archipelago's unique and fragile environment while supporting its thriving tourism industry.
A 3-level system for tourism establishments
The introduction of this tax on the environmental sustainability of tourism in the Seychelles was announced by Vice President Ahmed Afif. He unveiled a 3-tier system to ensure a fair and inclusive contribution from all tourist establishments. Establishments will have to collect this tax from visitors according to their size:
- for small structures (1 to 24 rooms)the fee will be 25 SCR Seychelles rupees (2 €) per person per night ;
- for medium-sized establishments (25 to 50 rooms)75 SCR per person (5 €) per night ;
- for large accommodations (over 51 rooms)the tax will reach 100 SCR (7 €) per person per night.
A collective responsibility to preserve the environment
The aim of the new environmental tax is to encourage sense of collective responsibility by involving tourists in the preservation of the Seychelles environment. By implementing this measure, the country hopes to set an example in the fight against environmental degradation and promote more sustainable tourism. The regulations governing this tax were published in the Journal Officiel on July 28.
Other decisions taken at the Cabinet meeting
At the Cabinet meeting chaired by Wavel Ramkalawan on July 5, several measures were approved in addition to the introduction of the Tourism Environmental Sustainability Levy. These include Seychelles' membership of the Kyoto Convention for the simplification and harmonization of customs procedures.
This international convention provides a comprehensive set of customs procedures designed to facilitate international trade while ensuring effective customs control. The Seychelles government was also briefed on the use of the electronic identity card and digital signature in the Seychelles, which is due to be implemented shortly.
Abu Dhabi abolishes tourism tax for event organizers
The opposite of the Seychelles' approach, Abu Dhabi recently decided to abolish the 10% tourism tax for event organizers.. This change aims to support the investment environment in the emirate and encourage the organization of events.
However, it is now compulsory for event organizers to obtain a license in accordance with the regulations specified for this purpose. In this way, local authorities wish to exercise greater control over events organized in the region, while offering greater flexibility to players in the sector.
Sustainable tourism, a major challenge for Seychelles
By introducing this environmental tax, the Seychelles government is underlining the importance of the environment for the development of its tourism industry. The archipelago, made up of 115 islands, must preserve the beauty of its landscapes and the richness of its flora and fauna if it is to continue to attract visitors.
Tourism is Seychelles' main economic driverrepresenting almost 65% of its GDP. Implementing measures to ensure the sustainability of this sector is therefore of crucial importance to the archipelago's long-term prosperity.
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