However, the government had wanted to spend only CHF220.5 million.
Economics Minister Guy Parmelin argued that the government had already increased the regular contribution from the current four-year period and that additionally, the industry was benefiting from special programmes and financial incentives, including a reduced rate of value-added tax (VAT).
The tourism industry contributes about 2.9% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employs around 175,500 people, according to official data.
Parliament also agreed to increase to CHF30 million payments to an agency promoting innovation, cooperation and research in the field of tourism. The government had initially earmarked about CHF23 million over the next four years.
The parliamentary approval came during an ongoing debate about a package of promotion measures for Swiss industry, including a boost for the export sector.
Opponents warned against increasing government spending, while supporters argued that small and medium-sized companies in particular suffered from uncertainties over the global economy and the strong Swiss franc.
In total, the government wanted to spend just over CHF373 million on subsidies, but the parliamentary chambers have pushed the contributions to CHF390 million.
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Swiss tourist chief warns against Europe-only strategy
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Record-breaking Chinese tourist party descends on Switzerland
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The heatwave and beautiful weather last summer meant many people decided to chill out at home, according to the TCS travel barometer 2019External link, published on Monday by the Touring Club of Switzerland. Italian-speaking Ticino and Graubünden in eastern Switzerland topped the attractivity ranking, followed by Italy, which just pipped canton Valais. These destinations were followed…
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If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.