Spain is experiencing a surge in anti-tourism protests amid its economic growth, largely fueled by a booming tourism industry that contributes significantly to its GDP. Despite nearly 100 million foreign visitors expected this year, setting a new record, local communities in popular destinations like the Canary Islands, the Balearics, and Malaga are pushing back against the negative impacts of tourism on their environments and living conditions. Discussions about imposing restrictions and rethinking the country’s tourism model are underway, with cities like Barcelona planning to revoke licenses for tourist apartments to address the issue.
- Spain’s economy is growing faster than most European neighbors, largely due to its tourism industry, which is responsible for about 13.3% of its GDP growth.
- Nearly 100 million foreign visitors are expected in Spain this year, highlighting the country’s popularity as a tourist destination.
- Local protests have emerged in popular tourist destinations like the Canary Islands, the Balearics, and Malaga, voicing concerns over the impact of tourism.
- In Malaga, nearly a third of all properties are used as short-term tourist accommodations, driving up housing prices and altering the city’s character.
- Discussions are focusing on sustainable tourism, with suggestions for limiting tourist numbers and imposing stricter regulations on the industry.
- Barcelona plans to revoke the licenses of all its 10,000 tourist apartments by 2028 as a measure to control tourism’s impact.
- The debate continues on whether the economic benefits of tourism outweigh the social and environmental challenges it brings.
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