By / MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan, compiled and reported
Future travel expenses to Japan will go up ! Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe recently announced that the consumption tax will be raised from 8% to 10%, with the change expected to take effect in October 2019. Going forward, economic recovery and fiscal health will also be key goals. The tax had originally been scheduled to rise to 10% as early as 2015, but Abe postponed the increase twice due to reasons such as the global economic slowdown.
The consumption tax will officially rise to 10% in October 2019. (Photo / MOOK)
For travelers, this means future travel expenses will increase. Although most overseas travelers shopping in Japan can currently get refunds on purchases like cosmetics and department store goods once they reach a certain amount, dining and accommodation costs are not eligible for tax exemption. As a result, overall travel expenses are set to rise. Furthermore, according to Japanese government plans, the consumption tax may eventually be increased to 15%.
Shopping expenses during future trips to Japan will increase. (Photo / MOOK Scenic Spots Wu Pin-xuan)