Russia Hikes Tourist Tax, Lifts Export Duties On Coal

Wed Jan 01 04:44:09 UTC 2025: ## Russia Launches New Tourist Tax, Eliminates Coal Export Duties

**Moscow, January 1, 2025** – A new 1% tourist tax on accommodation costs came into effect across Russia today, replacing previous resort fees. The tax, part of a phased plan to improve regional tourism infrastructure, will gradually increase to 3% by 2027, with a minimum daily charge of 100 rubles ($0.9 USD). While hotels and other lodging providers are responsible for collecting the tax, the cost will be passed on to tourists. The legislation, amending the Russian Tax Code, was approved in July 2024, giving regional authorities the power to implement the levy. Many regions, especially those with thriving tourism sectors, have already adopted the new tax.

Separately, Russia has officially ended export duties on anthracite, coking coal, and thermal coal, effective January 1st. These duties were initially introduced in October 2023 with a flexible system, but were suspended for periods in 2024 to support the coal industry. The government’s decision to permanently remove these duties follows a November 2024 announcement to lift the coking coal duty early and extend the suspension of duties on anthracite and thermal coal.