Airbnb to Remove 66,000 Illegal Listings in Spain

Spain's fight against illegal tourist rentals intensifies as the Consumo department orders Airbnb to remove almost 66,000 listings. The move, led by Pablo Bustinduy, aims to address concerns about housing affordability and compliance with regulations. However, Airbnb has voiced its disagreement, stating that the request conflicts with existing European and Spanish laws. The company plans to appeal the decision. The conflict highlights the ongoing tension between the booming tourism sector and the need to ensure adequate housing for residents. The affected regions include Andalucia, Madrid, Catalonia, Valencia, the Balearic Islands, and the Basque Country. This case will likely set a precedent for future regulations and disputes regarding short-term rentals in Spain. The outcome will have significant implications for both the tourism industry and the housing market.