The Belgian federal government has made a minor adjustment to its plans for the VAT increase on hotels, holiday parks, campsites, sports facilities, attractions, theaters, cinemas, and other (commercial) day recreation activities, from 6% to 12%. The January 1, 2026, effective date proved too soon for many parties. The effective date has now been postponed to March 1, 2026.
The proposed VAT increase is under fire from several organizations.
The Flemish Sports Federation is still lobbying to reverse the VAT increase on sports: “Given that healthcare costs are currently spiraling out of control, it is highly illogical and counterproductive to make sports and physical activity more expensive.”
Pairi Daiza Animal Park is seeing its competitive position with foundation-based zoos (including Antwerp Zoo and Planckendaal Zoo) deteriorate. These zoos are exempt from VAT. This also applies to animal parks across the German border.
The Dome of Museums and Attractions fears deteriorating competitive conditions with neighboring countries.
Horeca Vlaanderen is also concerned about Belgium's competitive position; “The impact on hotels and accommodation is enormous. ” Domestic holidays are becoming increasingly expensive.