Photo/Illutration The ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s tourism policy panel meets on Nov. 13 to approve a proposal to raise the country’s tourist departure tax to 3,000 yen ($19) per person. (Takeshi Owada)

Japan’s international tourist departure tax woul be hiked from the current 1,000 yen ($6.50) to 3,000 yen per person, under a resolution approved by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party’s tourism policy panel on Nov. 13.

The measure aims to address the growing problem of overtourism across Japan.

The increase could take effect as early as the next fiscal year, beginning in April, if included in the ruling coalition’s year-end tax policy outline.

The departure tax, officially known as the International Tourist Tax, is levied on all travelers leaving Japan, regardless of nationality. It is typically added to airline tickets.

According to the Japan Tourism Agency, the tax generated 52.4 billion yen in revenue during fiscal 2024.

In its resolution, the panel urged that the increase be implemented as quickly as possible in the next fiscal year. It also proposed a higher rate of 5,000 yen for passengers traveling in business class or above.

On the other hand, the panel called for maintaining Japan’s tax-free shopping system for foreign visitors, which is seen as vital for stimulating tourist spending.

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