Vacation in danger: Rising VAT threatens travel to the Netherlands!

Vacation in danger: Rising VAT threatens travel to the Netherlands!

The Dutch holiday destinations are very popular with German travelers, especially from North Rhine-Westphalia. However, an upcoming law could have a negative impact on travel costs. From January 1, 2026, a significant increase in VAT is planned from 9% to 21%, which means an increase of 12%. This could further fuel already rising holiday costs, given that Germany's current VAT rate is 7%, a notable difference when it comes to price comparisons. This proposed change in the law has raised widespread concerns, particularly among accommodation and leisure operators in the Netherlands.

Rien Mol, operator of the Het Rheins estate, considers the upcoming price increases to be worrying and fears that many holidaymakers could be deterred by them. Jeroen van den Berg, park manager at Center Parcs Sandur, also describes the situation as unpleasant for the German guests. The industry is therefore in close contact with the Dutch government to discuss the possible VAT increase, particularly given the impact on tourism.

Consequences for the tourism sector

The additional revenue from the tax increase should help reduce the burden on the state budget by around 2.2 billion euros. But the planned increase is controversial not only in the tourism sector, but also in other areas such as sporting and cultural events and bookselling. Representatives of these sectors are dissatisfied with the measure and are demanding that the government reconsider its plans. Critics argue that the high prices that could result from the VAT increase are at odds with policy goals, such as improving literacy and access to sport.

The opposition has spoken out against the planned VAT increase. In this context, it could be difficult for the government to secure the necessary votes in the upper house of parliament as it does not have an absolute majority. The current exchange on the draft budget and the associated legislative changes is seen as a crucial point in time for stabilizing the budget.

Public reactions

The upcoming price increases could have a negative impact on consumers who regularly use services in these sectors. Concerns about VAT increases are high as it is believed that short-term financial benefits could potentially lead to long-term societal losses. If the plans are implemented, affected companies may have to adjust their business models and pass on higher prices to their customers.

With all this information in mind, the upcoming change in Dutch tax policy will not only change the cost of vacations, but could also affect the entire travel experience of German tourists in the Netherlands. Holidaymakers are curious to see how the political discussion will develop and how this could affect their future holiday plans.

For more information read the articles at The West and Nalog.