The case could set a precedent for how national authorities regulate global rental platforms under existing consumer rights laws as appeals unfold.

Spain fines Airbnb 64 million euros for advertising unlicensed tourist rental homes as part of a broad crackdown intended to protect housing availability and curb unregulated listings.

Violations cited include listings without license numbers, mismatched licenses, and inaccurate host information, according to the consumer rights ministry.

This action follows a May order by the ministry to remove around 65,000 listings for rule violations, underscoring ongoing regulatory pressure on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.

Authorities are shifting platform accountability, asserting marketplaces must ensure listings comply with local laws before promotion.

The crackdown is part of a global debate on the housing impact of vacation rentals, with cities worldwide weighing similar regulatory approaches.

The effort balances protecting residents with regulating tourism, potentially raising tourist costs in licensed properties and shifting demand toward regulated hotels.

The government emphasizes that no company is above the law and aims to protect housing availability and affordability for residents.

The action comes amid tensions between national consumer protection and EU rules, potentially shaping similar regulatory approaches across Europe.

The outcome could influence future regulatory approaches to vacation rental platforms in Spain and beyond.

Airbnb says it is collaborating with authorities on the new registration system and frames enforcement as part of addressing the housing crisis.

The case highlights ongoing efforts to align short-term rental platforms with national permitting and consumer-protection rules.