Russia is moving to simplify travel within its borders by removing the value added tax on the sale of domestic tours, a policy announced by President Vladimir Putin and confirmed in a government briefing. The rebate is scheduled to take effect at the start of 2023 and will run through mid-2027, applying to both domestic and inbound travel programs that feature Russian destinations. This shift aims to stimulate tourism by lowering the upfront cost for travelers and easing the financial burden on tour operators who organize domestic and outbound experiences within Russia.
In remarks from a meeting with senior government officials, Maxim Reshetnikov, who previously led the Ministry of Economic Development, indicated strong support for extending VAT relief for operators focused on domestic tourism through 2027. The pledge to zero out VAT reflects a broader effort to bolster the tourism sector, encouraging more Ryossians and international visitors to choose domestic travel during the period of policy relief.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology has outlined plans to upgrade Rosgeo’s research vessels for cruise tourism in the Far East. Four vessels under Rosgeologia’s oversight are slated for reconfiguration to support ticketed cruise activities, with naval design bureaus contributing to the modernization work. Officials say funding sources are being explored as the project moves forward and the maritime sector prepares to leverage the region’s growing appeal for tourism and scientific exploration alike.