The fine stems from a long-running dispute between Spanish authorities and short-term rental platforms over compliance with regulations designed to protect housing availability for residents. In July 2025, Airbnb withdrew around 65,000 listings after pressure from the ministry, which contended these adverts lacked mandatory registration numbers or contained inaccurate information, reports Reuters.

Consumer Affairs Minister Pablo Bustinduy, whose department spearheaded the action, said the penalty sends a clear message that no company is above the law. “There are thousands of families living on the edge because of the housing crisis, while a few get rich from business models that drive people from their homes,” Bustinduy said in a government statement.  The fine has been upheld through administrative channels, though Airbnb retains the right to appeal in court.

Airbnb responded to the fine by saying it intends to challenge the decision and continues to work with Spanish authorities on compliance. The company noted changes in national registration rules and said more than 70,000 listings have since added a registration number.

Spain’s booming tourism economy, which saw record visitor numbers in 2024, has been a vital driver of growth. Yet concerns over unaffordable housing and strains on local communities have fuelled political and public demand for tighter controls on short-term rentals.

The government’s action also highlights wider regulatory pressure on the sector, following high fines against other platforms for consumer protection breaches.