BOLZANO. «We have a tourist tax which is among the lowest, it absolutely needed to be reviewed also to adapt to the new provisions of the Province». The process is not yet concluded, but the mayor Renzo Caramaschi announces that from January 1st 2025 tourists who stay in Bolzano will pay 50 cents more per night.
In the last session, the city council unanimously approved the changes to the Regulation for the establishment and request of the municipal tourist tax. «Currently – explains the mayor – the tax is set at 1.70 euros; for three-star hotels 2.10 euros; 2.50 euros for 4 and 5 stars. The provincial law allows you to bring it up to a maximum of 5 euros. We have opted for an intermediate path, graduating it depending on the type of structure.So the maximum will be 3 euros per night in four-star hotels; four stars superior and five”.
«Until now – recalls councilor Claudio della Ratta – minors up to the age of 18 who participate in organized school and youth groups, composed of at least ten people, including chaperones, were exempt from paying the tax; though, from January this exemption will be cancelled.” the mayor specifies that this is the effect of the transposition of the provincial legislation: ”And in any case it was seen that it was a bit complicated to apply.”
By virtue of the increases, it is calculated that with 820 thousand overnight stays per year who pay the tourist tax, Bolzano will collect approximately 2 million and 300 thousand euros. 10% will go to the Municipality; 30% to Idm, the company that takes care of the marketing campaign for the whole of Alto Adige; the rest to the tourist office.«We, obviously - says the director of the tourist board Roberta Agosti – we are happy because with the tax adjustment, we will collect a little more than today, but not vrey much. As 10% will end up in the Municipality’s coffers and in any case already today the legislation allowed us to ask for an increase of 20 cents compared to the basic rate. Therefore, only a few tens of thousands of euros more will enter our coffers.However, it is very significant money that is needed to support our activities, not the structure.”
There is a shortage of beds
Bolzano is now increasingly a tourist city, the problem is that there are few hotel facilities. «To the capital – recalls Caramaschi – the Provincial plan assigns a total of 229 new beds: 209 for public establishments; 20 to agritourism. Zero to the room rentals which – in recent years - have literally exploded, taking away accommodation from residents or those arriving from outside to work here. And even if some guest houses close, it has been decided that the beds will be allocated to hotel facilities. Meanwhile, the control activity by the municipal police continues, which has already closed about thirty illegal guest houses.”
What are the main benefits of implementing a tourist tax for local communities like Bolzano?
Interview: Time.news Editor with Tourist Tax Expert
Editor: Welcome to our special segment, where we delve into the intricacies of local tourism policies. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena Rossi, a leading expert in tourism economics. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Rossi.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to discuss this crucial topic.
Editor: Let’s start with the elephant in the room: the recent discussions about the tourist tax in Bolzano.The local government has suggested that it’s time to review the current policy. What are your thoughts on this?
Dr. Rossi: Absolutely. Bolzano’s tourist tax has been one of the lowest in the region,and as tourism continues to evolve,it’s crucial for the local administration to assess whether this tax structure still aligns with the needs of both tourists and residents.
Editor: Interesting point. You mentioned that the tax is on the lower side. In your experience, what are the potential economic impacts of maintaining a low tourist tax versus increasing it?
Dr. Rossi: Maintaining a low tax can initially attract more tourists since it’s a financial incentive. Though,if the revenue generated is insufficient for necessary local services,such as waste management or public transportation,it can lead to deteriorating conditions that ultimately detract from the tourist experience. Conversely,a modest increase in the tax could provide additional funds to enhance services that benefit both tourists and locals,creating a more sustainable tourism model.
Editor: Sustainability is indeed a key aspect of tourism today. How do you see the proposed review of the tourist tax fitting into broader initiatives for sustainable tourism in Bolzano?
Dr. Rossi: The review process is a perfect prospect to integrate sustainability into the tourist tax framework. It could allow for differentiated tax rates based on the type of accommodation or even incentivize eco-pleasant practices among businesses. Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure that tourism contributes positively to the local economy while preserving Bolzano’s natural and cultural resources.
Editor: That sounds promising! However, do you foresee any challenges that the local government might face in implementing these changes?
Dr. Rossi: Definitely. One of the primary challenges will be public perception. Residents and businesses may be divided on increasing the tax if they perceive it as a burden rather than a benefit. Obvious communication about how the funds will be used and engaging stakeholders in the planning process are essential for gaining their support.
Editor: Great insights, Dr. Rossi. Do you think that tourists themselves would be open to paying a higher tax if they knew it would improve their experience and the local community?
Dr. Rossi: In many cases, yes. Tourists are frequently enough willing to contribute more if they understand that their funds are being utilized for better facilities, conservation efforts, or community projects. Successful examples from other regions show that educational campaigns highlighting the direct benefits can lead to greater acceptance of a tourist tax increase.
Editor: That’s very encouraging to hear! if you had to summarize your key suggestion for the Bolzano government as they review their tourist tax, what would it be?
Dr.Rossi: I would advise them to adopt a collaborative approach—engage with stakeholders from all sides, including residents, business owners, and tourists. Gathering input and feedback can lead to a fair and effective tax structure that supports sustainable development and enhances the overall experience in Bolzano.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your expertise with us today. It’s clear that the tourist tax is more than just a fee; it has the potential to shape the future of tourism in Bolzano and beyond.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss these vital issues!
Editor: And to our listeners, thank you for tuning in. Stay informed and engaged as we continue to explore the impacts of tourism on local communities!