财经观察：日本为何考虑向外国游客增税？

Core Viewpoint - Japan is considering increasing taxes on foreign tourists, including the potential elimination of tax-free shopping and an increase in departure taxes, to address issues of "over-tourism" and illegal resale practices while balancing government revenue needs [1][2][3] Group 1: Tax Policy Changes - The Japanese Ministry of Finance announced that the "International Tourist Tax" (departure tax) for the fiscal year 2024 has reached a record high of 48.1 billion yen, driven by an increase in foreign visitors [2] - A proposal from some ruling party members suggests the "principle abolition of the tax-free shopping system," citing concerns over illegal resale practices and the belief that the system has fulfilled its purpose [2][3] - The current tax-free shopping system allows foreign tourists to avoid consumption tax, which has led to exploitation by some individuals for profit [2][3] Group 2: Economic Implications - The estimated tax-free sales for fiscal year 2024 are approximately 2.4 trillion yen, with a corresponding consumption tax exemption of about 240 billion yen [4] - If the tax-free system is abolished and foreign tourists maintain their spending levels, it is projected to generate an additional 240 billion yen in tax revenue [4] - A proposal to increase the departure tax from 1,000 yen to 5,000 yen could raise tax revenue from 4.9 billion yen to approximately 25 billion yen [4] Group 3: Political Context - The ruling party and opposition parties are proposing various measures to alleviate household burdens ahead of the upcoming summer elections, with tax increases on foreign tourists seen as a less controversial option [3][5] - The push to abolish the tax-free system has garnered support across party lines, indicating a growing consensus on the need for reform [3][5] Group 4: Tourist Sentiment and Market Impact - Concerns have been raised that these tax changes may deter foreign tourists, with some indicating that tax-free shopping is a significant factor in their spending decisions [5][6] - Despite potential impacts, some tourists express that they would continue to visit Japan regardless of tax changes, although there are mixed feelings about increased departure taxes [6][7] - The Japanese government aims to balance the need for increased revenue with the potential risk of reducing tourist numbers, which are crucial for the tourism-dependent economy [7][8]