The Algarve Intermunicipal Community (AMAL) in Portugal has approved the basis for the introduction of a tourist tax in the region, effective March 2019.
The measure proposes the implementation of a €1,50 (R24) fee per touristfrom March to October, applicable only for the first seven days of stay. Children up to 12 years old are exempt.
When it comes into force, the surcharge could bring in as much as €25 million (R413m) per year.
The president of the Intermunicipal Community of the Algarve, Jorge Botelho, said the introduction of the tourist tax was intended to make tourists pay part of the costs that the municipalities bear during their stay. He believes that it will not affect tourist numbers.
