It is no news that one of the sectors most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic was tourism. But now, entering this new stage of collective immunization, the government announced new measures aimed at reactivating tourism in Uruguay.
In the framework of the commemoration of World Tourism Day, the Uruguayan Chamber organized a conference in which the new government support measures to encourage tourism were announced. President Luis Lacalle Pou, the Minister of Labor Pablo Mieres, the Minister of Tourism Tabaré Viera, and the Minister of Economy Azucena Arbeleche participated, who highlighted the tourism sector as one of the main ones in our country: for the employment it generates and for its influence on the other sectors of our economy.
What economic measures have been announced?
- VAT will be completely eliminated for foreign tourists who hire: hotels, catering services, car rentals without a driver, tourist rentals and catering services for parties and events.
- The 10,5% tax credit related to rentals of tourist accommodation and the income tax for non-residents will be added. In addition, the withholding of this tax made through real estate agencies will be suspended.
- Support for the most affected sectors will be extended: 100% exemption from employer contributions, exemption from IRAE advances and advances on wealth tax.
- The refund of 9 VAT points for Uruguayan tourists will be maintained on food services, car rentals without a driver, tourist rentals and catering services for parties and events.
- Partial unemployment insurance will be extended until March 31, 2022.
- Siga Impulso loans will be extended until April 30, 2022.
Source: The travel diary
