Italy Will Create a Database to Combat Illegal Tourism

The Italian tourism season has been successful, as the ministry's research offices and other authorities' predictions for 2021 have already been exceeded.

Nonetheless, the absence of regulation for online tourism has become a problem. During a discussion with the organization, the latter promised to abide by the measures imposed by the government regarding the system of the short-term rental industry.

"By October, we will have the database of the non-hotel offer. It will be the main tool against the illegal phenomenon. Those who offer accommodation solutions that are not in good standing are competing unfairly with those in good standing," The Italian Tourism Ministry has said.

In addition, he asserted that the issue cannot be fixed with random answers and that the country requires the imposition of certain rules.

During the meeting, Garavaglia highlighted that the ministry promotes and supports the agenda established by the Decree on Aid, which asks the government to collaborate with the Regions to develop measures to be implemented throughout the country.

Before the global pandemic, the Italian tourist industry contributed 13 per cent of the country's gross domestic product, or about €240 billion, employed 15 per cent of the labor force, contributed €44 billion to the Italian trade balance, and had a production value of €190 billion.

For this sector, the pandemic generated repercussions comparable to war, as the national GDP decreased by 8.8% in 2020 and tourism decreased by 40%.

Simultaneously, Italy, like the rest of Europe, is experiencing a surge in energy prices, and the government believes it must intervene swiftly with cost-reduction measures.

The Italian Tourism Ministry also stated; "Energy has reached levels that jeopardize the results of companies. I hope that this week there will be a Council of Ministers capable of adopting quick solutions. For these reasons, the desirable solution would be a tax credit for tourism, spa businesses and catering calculated on the increase in costs from September 2021 to September 2022".

Germany is likewise implementing significant energy conservation measures. Specifically, in September, public buildings, monuments, and advertising may no longer be illuminated at night.

The heating of public buildings is restricted to 19 degrees, and hot water for hand washing will be discontinued. In addition, gas-heated private pools will not be heated.