One of the key government support measures has been extended to tour operators in the field of outbound tourism. The Government of the Russian Federation has postponed the deadline for payment of contributions to the personal responsibility fund for 2025 from June 15, 2026 to February 15, 2027.
According to the government, the decision was made to maintain the financial stability of the companies in the conditions of continuing instability in the international tourism market. One of the main factors is the difficult geopolitical situation in the Middle East, which continues to affect the implementation of tourist programs and the demand for certain foreign destinations.
The postponement will allow tour operators to keep additional funds in circulation and direct them to current tasks.
"The released funds will be used, among other things, to refund money to tourists who have paid for trips to countries where restrictions apply due to security threats," the statement said.
It is worth noting that similar support measures have already been applied before. The government postponed the deadlines for payment of contributions to the personal responsibility fund of tour operators in 2021, 2022 and 2025, which helped the industry to adapt to external challenges and maintain financial stability.
"The measure is aimed at maintaining the financial stability of tour operators in the face of restrictions due to security threats in a number of countries. Postponement of the payment deadline to the personal responsibility fund is targeted support that directly affects the solvency of tour operators and reduces risks for consumers," the ATOR Legal Service emphasized.
In addition, it was previously decided to reduce the amount of mandatory deductions for 2025 from 1% to 0.75% of the total cost of tourism products sold in the field of outbound tourism.
Together, these measures should reduce the financial burden on market participants and support the stable operation of companies during the ongoing uncertainty in the international tourism destination.
Please note that this press release is based on materials provided by the company. AK&M Information Agency shall not be held liable for its contents, nor for the legal and other consequences of its publication."Since the beginning of the year, in addition to the fact that tour operators were left without Cuba and Venezuela, sales of tours to the Middle East and its entire transit component have stopped. And now, taking funds out of circulation and freezing them would certainly be disastrous for a number of players. At the same time, we are glad that the government and the Ministry of Economic Development are once again showing flexibility and sensitivity, and delving into the problems of the industry," said ATOR Vice President for Outbound Tourism, CEO of the Space Travel tour operator. Artur Muradian.
