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Substantial revisions could be forthcoming for the Canary Islands’ tourism regulations following the local government’s initiation of a public consultation process. A broad consultation was announced recently, aimed at modernizing laws enacted in 1995 and 2013. This move responds to escalating discontent among residents in popular destinations such as Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria, who express mounting concerns regarding what they term overtourism Canary Islands.
Local news outlets suggest the primary objective is to align the legislation with the contemporary challenges and realities confronting the Canary Islands tourism sector. This development unfolds ahead of planned demonstrations against mass tourism protests scheduled across the archipelago for May 18. Canarias Tiene Un Límite (The Canaries Have a Limit), a coalition comprising various organizations, is coordinating these protests. The group articulated frustration with persistent official inaction concerning residents’ appeals to moderate visitor volumes.
Revising Tourism Laws Amidst Public Concern
Reporting indicates that a key goal of the proposed legislative changes is to tackle accommodation deficits in popular tourist areas, specifically seeking to safeguard residents’ access to long-term housing options.
The state of the housing market and rising rental costs constitute central grievances articulated by campaigners.
Furthermore, the forthcoming regulations are expected to delineate the categorization of areas experiencing significant tourist influx. This classification is intended to inform the planning and provision of infrastructure and essential public services.
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Official Stance and Visitor Statistics
Jessica de León, the Canary Islands’ Minister of Tourism and Employment, commented: “This initiative seeks to re-establish the connection between regulatory frameworks and the islands’ inhabitants and industry professionals—cultivating a tourism model that is more equitable, sustainable, and resilient.”
Recent official figures show almost 18 million people visited the archipelago in a recent period, with nearly 6.3 million from Britain.
The volcanic archipelago, consisting of seven main islands including Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria, remains a highly favored destination. Its enduring appeal is largely attributed to its consistent warm climate year-round, appealing beaches, opportunities for watersports, and diverse attractions.
Activism and Calls for Limits
Several protests opposing excessive tourism volumes occurred across Europe in the preceding year.
Announcing the upcoming May demonstrations, The Canaries Have a Limit collective asserted: “The Canary Islands can no longer serve merely as a scenic backdrop for the pleasure of a privileged minority. We represent the voices rejecting superficial advancement achieved at the expense of widespread precarity.”
The statement continued: “We are the Canarian populace—a people unwavering in our pursuit until the equitable transformation we merit is realized. On May 18th, our struggle persists in the streets. What follows will compel acknowledgement.”
Earlier in the month, the Canary Islands government disclosed its intention to petition the European Union for authorization to implement ceilings on property acquisitions by non-residents and foreign investors.