Travel agencies that bring foreign tourists to Romania will be able to receive a subsidy through a minimis scheme currently in the final stage of debate, announced the president of the National Association of Travel Agencies (ANAT), Dumitru Luca.
He added that with the recent amendment to Law 346 on export promotion, incoming tourism has been recognized as an export of services.
“We hope that other absolutely natural measures that should stimulate incoming tourism will also follow. A draft normative act is already in the final stage of debate through which subsidies will be granted to agencies that bring foreign tourists to Romania. It is a minimis scheme, which involves a minimum of four nights of accommodation in Romania, and for each additional night, something more is added. It’s not a lot of money, but it’s an incentive. (…) There is a legal framework, we also have the approval of the European Commission, and other countries do this, we didn’t invent it. I hope it materializes even if it is something symbolic, it is a start,” mentioned Luca.
Another project mentioned by the head of ANAT refers to the amendment of the Fiscal Code, so that incoming tourism also benefits from a zero VAT rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main requirement for travel agencies to access the subsidy?
To qualify for the minimis scheme, agencies must ensure a minimum of four nights of accommodation in Romania for the foreign tourists they bring.
How is incoming tourism now classified in Romania?
Following the amendment of Law 346, incoming tourism is officially recognized as an export of services, placing it on par with other export sectors.
What other fiscal measure is being proposed for incoming tourism?
ANAT is advocating for an amendment to the Fiscal Code that would allow incoming tourism services to benefit from a 0% VAT rate.