The minister responsible for tourism says there is no immediate plans for a tourist tax, but his department will continue to explore it.
Tim Johnston was speaking as Tynwald received a report on a potential tourism levy, following a July 2025 motion requiring consultation with businesses in the visitor economy.
More than 700 businesses were contacted, with engagement events attracting around 40 attendees and a survey drawing 102 responses.
Mr Johnston told Tynwald: “There are no immediate plans to introduce a tourist levy in the Isle of Man. However, what is equally clear is the need to continue to engage directly with businesses and operators within the visitor economy.”
Opposed
Rob Callister opposed receiving the report, saying: “I did not support the original motion back in July 2025. Once again, I’m unable to support the direction of travel suggested by this report.”
He added: “The Isle of Man is not Amsterdam. It is not Barcelona or Paris. The Isle of Man is not suffering from overtourism.”
Dr Michelle Haywood raised concerns about ring-fencing any future levy, stating: “We’re not very good at ring fencing generally within government.
“That distinction is not academic. It is the difference between a partnership and a taxation policy.”
Lawrie Hooper, who moved the original motion, noted that voluntary contributions are already accepted by visitors, adding: “£730,000 a year is not a small amount of money to be sniffed at.”