The government still plans to start the 450-baht tourism tax in Q1 of next year, despite private-sector requests to delay because of flooding. An online hearing found 80.5% support, and officials expect about 8 billion baht a year in collections. The money partly funds tourist insurance. Tourism-linked businesses should factor the charge into next year's pricing, booking and tourist-volume plans. The article does not give the collection mechanics or who pays, so confirm those details before changing prices.