Image Source: The Guardian
The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) has raised concerns that almost half of Malta’s Airbnb rentals are operating without a license. This is a significant issue, as private holiday rentals now account for just under a third of all guest nights in Malta. The MHRA’s findings highlight the need for greater regulation and oversight of the short-term rental market in Malta.
According to EU consumer protection law, hosts who commercially offer goods or services online, including short-term rentals, are required to provide specific information to their customers . However, it appears that many Airbnb hosts in Malta are not complying with these regulations, which can lead to a lack of transparency and accountability in the market.
The MHRA’s concerns about unlicensed Airbnb rentals in Malta are not just about regulatory compliance; they also have implications for the country’s tourism industry as a whole. As private holiday rentals become increasingly popular, it is essential that the Maltese government takes steps to ensure that these rentals are safe, regulated, and contribute to the local economy.
