Canary Islands Set to Revamp Tourism Regulations After Extensive Public Engagement

The Government of the Canary Islands is embarking on a significant overhaul of its tourism regulations, following a comprehensive public consultation that attracted over 700 contributions from various stakeholders. This initiative reflects the region’s commitment to adapting its tourism framework to meet evolving demands and challenges.

The Department of Tourism and Employment has actively engaged with a diverse array of stakeholders, forming five working groups in collaboration with local universities. These groups have been instrumental in collecting valuable insights and feedback, which will be pivotal in shaping the forthcoming legislation. The government anticipates finalizing this new regulatory framework by the end of the year, marking a crucial step towards modernizing the tourism sector in the Canary Islands.

Key Goals of the Upcoming Legislation

In a recent address to the regional parliament, Jessica de León, the Minister of Tourism and Employment, articulated the primary objectives of the new regulations. The proposed legislation aims to replace existing laws, specifically Law 7/1995 on Tourism Regulation and Law 2/2013 on Tourism Renewal and Modernisation. Minister de León underscored the necessity of establishing a robust legal framework that not only addresses current challenges but also anticipates future developments, ensuring that the Canary Islands maintain their status as a competitive and sustainable tourist destination.

Among the key focuses of the new regulations will be the protection of tourists’ rights to accurate information, the establishment of efficient complaint mechanisms, and the commitment to preserving the region’s natural and cultural heritage. These elements are crucial for fostering trust and satisfaction among visitors, which in turn can enhance the overall tourism experience.

Comprehensive Approach to Tourism Offerings

The new legislation is designed to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework that encompasses all types of accommodation and marketing channels available in the Canary Islands. Minister de León emphasized the importance of implementing rigorous registration and control mechanisms to uphold service quality, protect consumers, and promote sustainability within tourist accommodations. These measures are vital for maintaining the integrity of the region’s tourism model, which has been a cornerstone of its economy for over sixty years.

As some areas of the Canary Islands have become outdated due to the rapid evolution of tourism, the new regulations will introduce specific measures aimed at the renewal and modernization of both public and private spaces. This proactive approach is intended to enhance the competitiveness of these areas, ensuring they remain attractive to both new and returning visitors.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

Minister de León also highlighted the critical need for sustainable architecture in tourism-related infrastructure, which includes accommodations and shopping centers. She pointed out that investing in sustainable practices not only helps reduce carbon footprints through enhanced energy efficiency but also revitalizes older destinations, transforming them into climate-friendly locales. This dual benefit aligns with global trends towards sustainability and responsible tourism.

Furthermore, the new regulations will be tailored to accommodate the unique territorial and ownership structures of the Canary Islands. This includes the incorporation of innovative marketing and tourism intermediation channels, which aim to align local regulations with European and national standards. By doing so, the government seeks to ensure high service quality while advancing the region’s decarbonization strategy, a crucial aspect of contemporary tourism management.

Enhancing the Broader Tourism Experience

In addition to focusing on accommodation, the new regulations will also address other vital tourism-related activities, such as catering, which significantly contributes to the region’s appeal. The legislation will prioritize high standards of quality, safety, and risk prevention in these services. Local authorities will be responsible for planning and managing public tourism services, promoting stability and sustainability across the sector.

Moreover, the legislation will place a strong emphasis on the importance of technical and professional training in tourism. This includes initiatives ranging from hotel schools to university programs, aimed at fostering local talent. Minister de León emphasized that the development of skilled professionals is essential for the requalification of the destination, and an advisory commission for professional tourism training will continue to serve as a vital resource in this endeavor.

Finally, the new regulations will introduce a clear sanctions regime to address infractions and penalties. This framework will incorporate provisions related to territory, sustainability, energy transition, and consumer digital rights, ensuring that all stakeholders are held accountable. Additionally, tools aimed at streamlining and rationalizing administrative processes will be implemented, enhancing the efficiency of regulatory compliance.

Key points

• The Canary Islands government is drafting new tourism regulations following a public consultation with 705 contributions.
• Five working groups with local universities have been established to gather stakeholder feedback.
• The new legislation will replace existing tourism laws to address current and future challenges.
• Minister Jessica de León emphasized the need for a legal framework that ensures sustainability and competitiveness.
• Regulations will cover all accommodation types and implement quality control mechanisms.
• Sustainable architecture will be a focus to enhance the region’s tourism infrastructure.
• The legislation will also address complementary tourism activities and emphasize local talent development.