Spain halts controversial tourism spy law amid industry backlash

In response to mounting pressure from the tourism sector, Spain has decided to postpone a controversial law that would have mandated hotels and apartment complexes to gather extensive personal information from guests. This legislation, which was scheduled to be implemented next week, has faced significant backlash due to concerns over privacy and data protection. The proposed requirements included collecting sensitive details such as bank account information, personal phone numbers, and home addresses, which many in the industry argue could deter potential visitors. Currently, the only requirement for hotels is to send a photocopy of a guest's passport or ID to the police, a process that is far less invasive than the new regulations would have been. The Spanish government has defended the law by citing security reasons, but the tourism industry remains firmly opposed, arguing that it violates data protection rules and could overwhelm hotel staff with increased administrative burdens. The delay in implementing the law is intended to provide hotel staff with additional time to train and adapt to the forthcoming regulations. However, industry leaders continue to express their concerns about the potential impact on the tourism sector, which is vital to Spain's economy. They warn that the legislation could lead to a decline in visitor numbers, further complicating the recovery of the tourism industry post-pandemic. As the situation develops, the tourism sector is committed to fighting the legislation, emphasizing the need for a balance between security measures and the protection of personal data. The postponement reflects the ongoing tension between government regulations and industry interests in Spain's tourism landscape.