Latest WTTC research shows that at least £14 billion would be lost from the UK economy if daily visitor taxes are introduced

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), which represents the private sector in the Travel & Tourism industry, has published new research which highlights the damage that would be done to the UK economy if new visitor levies are introduced.

Core Findings
- Economic Impact: A proposed £10 daily visitor tax could reduce international visitor spending by £14.4 billion in 2027, severely affecting the UK economy.
- Visitor Behavior:
- 29% of travelers from major source markets (USA, France, Germany) would consider alternative destinations.
- 39% of UK residents said they would avoid domestic holidays if the levy were introduced.
- Family Travel: The tax would disproportionately affect families—42% of international travelers and 46% of Brits said it would be a “big issue” when traveling with children.

Wider Consequences
- Job Losses: Tens of thousands of jobs, especially in small businesses (shops, restaurants, hospitality suppliers), could be lost.
- Competitiveness Gap: UK Travel & Tourism GDP growth (4.3% in 2025) lags behind the global average (6.7%), meaning the UK is already 36% below global growth rates.
- Sector Importance: Travel & Tourism supports around 4.5 million UK jobs, roughly one in eight nationwide, underlining the risk of weakening competitiveness.

WTTC Position
Gloria Guevara, WTTC’s President & CEO, emphasized that the research is “clear” — visitor taxes would lead to a slump in both international and domestic tourism, wiping billions from the economy and raising unemployment, particularly among SMEs.

This research is part of a broader debate as the UK government considers giving Mayoral Strategic Authorities the power to introduce tourism levies across England.