Airbnb’s Amsterdam Economic Board membership suspended
Netherlands: The NL Times is reporting that Airbnb has been suspended for the foreseeable future from the Amsterdam Economic Board Network Council.
According to the website, the Amsterdam Economic Board is accusing the site of refusing to comply with its demands to reduce the number of days that homes can be rented from 60 days to 30 days a year, which is the current vacation rental limit in Amsterdam.
The board is made up of government and private sector firms that work together to fuel sustainable economic growth in the Dutch capital and want to build a ‘smart, green and healthy future Amsterdam metro region’.
A spokesperson for the board told the website that Airbnb’s stance is ‘currently too far removed from the municipality of Amsterdam’s plans to improve the quality of life in the city’.
A further email statement was provided to the website, in which the board said Airbnb’s membership is suspended until the Agenda Committee reconvenes for its next meeting in September. It will also rule on whether the platform’s membership should be revoked.
Following that, if Airbnb then opts to comply with the 30-day regulations, the possibility remains that it would be permitted to re-join after a vote, according to the spokesman.
Councillor Udo Kock said Airbnb was informed of its upcoming suspension three weeks ago and added: “The 30-day rule of the municipality of Amsterdam contributes to reducing the negative impact of the business model, by helping to enforce it, Airbnb can show social responsibility.”
Despite this, Airbnb stated it would continue to collaborate with the city in order to repair their ongoing relationship.
