The company Airbnb expressed concern about the new rules contained in the bill to regulate non-traditional lodging and its intermediation through digital platforms, approved in the first reading by the Legislative Assembly last Thursday.
Through an official statement, Airbnb said the proposed regulations will
affect this prosperous component of Costa Rica’s tourism economy, which creates opportunities in coastal communities and rural areas throughout the country.”
The benefits of Airbnb in Costa Rica are powerful. At the same time, the losses throughout the community due to the new regulation will affect not only Airbnb hosts, but also restaurants and other small local entrepreneurs who today benefit from the local tourism generated by Airbnb,”
said the company in the statement.
Airbnb said local hosts have contacted them directly to express their fear of the final impact the legislation will have on their ability to earn additional income and support their families.
The Ticos, who are the most affected in this process, were not invited to share their experiences and concerns. Their voices are important and should have been heard. We believe that the Costa Rican Institute of Tourism and municipalities should consider the point of view of our host community before proceeding with the implementation of this legislation,”
added the company.
In the statement, Airbnb stressed that they support fair and reasonable regulation.
The bill will regulate the provision of tourist services for rental of homes, apartments, villas, chalets, bungalows, rooms or any other similar construction and the platforms of trading companies that mediate between users and service providers.
The initiative is pending its second regulatory reading, which might take place today.