The Icelandic Chamber of Commerce, known as Viðskiptaráð, has raised concerns about a proposed nature- and infrastructure-fee at three of Iceland’s most heavily visited tourist attractions: Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir. According to reporting by Fréttatíminn, the Chamber argues the suggested fee would be neither simple nor cost-effective.
The Chamber of Commerce says it does support ensuring proper development and maintenance for popular sites, but it points out that the proposed fee would add to existing taxes on the tourism sector. Furthermore, the organisation notes the scheme would require the creation of a new collection and enforcement system, further complicating matters for businesses and authorities.
Meanwhile, an opinion piece published in Vísir voices support for the general idea of a nature- and infrastructure-fee. However, the writer argues that the current proposal is too narrow in scope, suggesting it should cover more tourist destinations across Iceland. The piece adds that revenue from any fee should be clearly directed to nature protection and that the scheme would benefit from a longer period of preparation and public discussion.
The same opinion article stresses that while it is right for visitors to contribute financially to the upkeep of Icelandic nature, they should also be given transparency about what they will gain in exchange for any fee they pay.
Sources
- Fréttatíminn (first reported) in Icelandic
- Vísir in Icelandic
