The City Council in Lisbon has given its approval for a proposal designed and submitted by Social Democrats.

According to the proposal, the relevant authorities of the government should bring about a significant change in the taxes levied on tourists.

As a result, the proposal aims to eliminate and reduce the tourism taxes that residents are required to pay, especially in areas that are not frequented by tourists or well-known to be tourist hotspots.

The proposal

In addition, the PSD proposal made several recommendations with respect to the tourist taxes being levied on the people of the city.

Consequently, the chamber was advised to carry out a study that would help the relevant authorities understand how people feel about the tourist tax in Lisbon.

The PSD Deputy took to arguing that the residents living in the Portuguese capital should not be liable to pay tourist taxes at all.

As of now, the residents have to pay €2 for every night they spend in hotels, local establishments, and other accommodation spots throughout the city.

On this note, Carlos Moedas, the Deputy of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), stated that the people of Lisbon should not have to pay the amount that is a result of excess tourism in the various areas of the city.

Argument

At the presentation held by the PSD for the proposal, it argued that there is substantial pressure presented by the consequences of tourism on various aspects of everyday life.

This includes maintenance of public spaces, urban hygiene, pollution, as well as the noise in the city of Lisbon.

Due to the impact of tourism, the residents have to bear accumulated high costs, which the PSD believes need to be alleviated right away.

It was reported by local sources that the suggestion of the PSD to conduct a detailed study on the matter was well-received by the attendees.

Moreover, it was decided that this study would determine the update in tourist tax in the capital city of Portugal.

In addition, the proposal was given the green light, but not all those present were in favor. The proposition was heavily opposed by PCP, Chega, and PEV.

Meanwhile, IL and BE decised to abstain from voting in any case. Votes in favor were given by Livre, PS, PAN, PSD, MPT, Alianca, CDS-PP, PPM, and two independent deputies belonging to Cidadaos Por Lisboa.

Tourist tax

The tax on tourism in Lisbon for overnight stays came into existence due to the efforts of national students. This also included the residents of the city and foreigners in hotels and various accommodation establishments.

Since January 2016, the relevant authorities have compelled the residents of the city to pay this tax on tourism.

Back then, the tax was half of what it is now. Three years later, it was increased to €2 per night.In line with this, passengers of cruise ships have just started to pay the fee.

The existing and new taxes have long been protested by various parties. CDS-PP deputy also recommended that tourist tax should be levied at different rates based on the area of the city.