As concerns that home-sharing apps such as Airbnb are damaging the tourism sector, the government has decided to tighten its grasps by regulating such apps more strictly.
The Tourism Amendment Bill published on Friday April 12, states that all short-term home rentals will now be legislated under the Tourism Act.
This update will allow the minister of Tourism to determine the exact thresholds or limits regarding these rentals on a short term basis.
The amendments have been added to deal with many complaints from local accommodation businesses and hotels that claim Airbnb is hurting their business.
The thresholds or limits could include setting a specific number of nights guests are allowed to stay as well as how much income Airbnb will be allowed to earn.
The department also has plans to research the locations and zones of different Airbnb listing to provide further insight into the issue.
Airbnb has seen huge growth in the last few years. With the app’s increase in popularity, the number of complaints have also increased.
The Federated Hospitality Association of SA (FHASA) called for government to crack down on Airbnb, and smaller organisations have followed suit.
The Port Elizabeth Metro Bed and Breakfast Association (PEMBBA) told City Press that Airbnb brought in over R6-million in Nelson Mandela Bay last year, up 65% on the previous period. The app rental company also advertises that locals can earn over R24 000 a month renting their properties in Cape Town.
As trends change and new advancements take over, many in the tourism industry are feeling the pressure and competition due to convenient offerings like Airbnb. Also read: Top 10 APP’s for Capetonians
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