Reverse VAT increase on lodging. Broad coalition hands appeal to House of Representatives.

Together with a broad coalition of business organisations, trade unions, cultural institutions and other social partners, Koninklijke Horeca Nederland (KHN) handed a joint letter to the Lower House this morning with an urgent appeal: reverse the VAT increase on accommodation.

The VAT increase on lodging from 9% to 21% leads to a chain of negative effects, according to the co-signatories. "This VAT increase affects not only hotels, B&Bs, campsites and holiday parks," argues KHN president Marijke Vuik, initiator of the letter. "Sectors such as culture, retail, events, cleaning, transport and municipalities are also going to be affected. The damage to employment, liveability and local economies is great, while at the bottom line the measure will cost more than it brings in."

Supported by research and case studies

The call is underpinned by several recent studies by ABN AMRO, CELTH/Decisio and Bureau Significant, among others, which show that the measure leads to loss of demand, job losses and declining investment space in quality and sustainability.

In addition, hoteliers from across the country also shared their stories in the media recently and in the magazine 'Sleepless nights', in which they provide insights into the concrete impact of the VAT increase on their business, guests and region.

Vote this afternoon

This afternoon, the Lower House will vote on the GroenLinks-PvdA and SP motion calling on the cabinet to reverse the VAT increase on accommodation. KHN, together with a large group of co-signatories (see attachment), calls on the Lower House to vote in favour of the motion and keep holidays in the Netherlands affordable.