The Royal Government of Bhutan is pleased to announce further incentives and policies to revitalize the tourism sector. This is due to the important role of the tourism sector in job creation; making money by exchanging money; recognize the potential for further benefits for the supply industry; and boost overall economic growth. The incentives and measures include the following: 50% reduction on the applicable SDF of USD 200 for tourists paying in Bhutan paying in USD. The actual discounted SDF is US$100 per person per day for tourists paying in US dollars. In addition, the SDF offers a 50% discount on fares for 6-12 year olds for children paying in US dollars who are visiting the country as tourists. . There is a 24-hour exemption from the SDF for tourists staying in border towns. The above incentives come into effect on September 1, 2023 and are valid for four years until August 31, 2027. The Royal Government will regularly review the domestic and international tourism scenarios and may withdraw the above incentives in order to preserve and promote Bhutan tourism. Policies in the high-end, low-volume tourism sector after August 31, 2027.
Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Bhutan’s tourism industry has seen an increase in visitors in recent months. According to the Bhutan Tourism Monitor, the country welcomed over 7,000 tourists in the first quarter of 2023, a 25% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The majority of visitors came from neighboring countries such as India and Bangladesh, with a smaller number coming from Europe and North America. The increase in tourism is seen as a positive sign for Bhutan’s economy, which has been heavily impacted by the pandemic.
Source: The Bhutanese, a leading news outlet in Bhutan.
The global tourism industry is showing signs of recovery as more people around the world receive COVID-19 vaccinations. According to the World Tourism Organization, international tourist arrivals increased by 19% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. The increase was driven by a rise in travel to destinations in Asia and the Pacific, as well as Europe. However, the industry still faces challenges, including ongoing travel restrictions and the emergence of new variants of the virus.
Source: BBC News, a leading news organization in the UK.