Minister rejects Copenhagen’s tourism tax proposal

Copenhagen’s bid to impose a tourism tax has been outright rejected by Morten Dahlin, Minister for Urban and Rural Affairs, who equated the proposal to a tax on Danish citizens, particularly targeting visitors from Jutland, who make up a substantial portion of the overnight guests in the capital. He argues that ordinary Danes should not be taxed for visiting their own capital. Copenhagen politicians have been seeking ways to cope with the pressure of rising tourism in the city, but the government had previously dismissed a proposed tourism tax in spring. Dahlin acknowledges the benefits of tourism, including economic gains and job creation, and even if the tax were aimed only at foreign tourists, he remains opposed, citing their significant economic contribution. He is open to addressing peak season challenges through dialogue and measures to distribute tourism more evenly throughout the year.