Airbnb pens open letter to Hungarian economy minister

Airbnb has addressed an open letter to Hungarian Economy Minister Márton Nagy, urging recognition of home-sharing’s economic benefits amid a government plan to pause new Airbnb permits in Budapest for two years. The company highlighted the significant contributions of short-term rentals to the national economy while warning that sweeping restrictions could harm local hosts’ income and the broader economy. Airbnb also voiced support for EU regulations that encourage balanced, evidence-based policies.

According to Portfolio’s report, during the European Tourism Forum held in Budapest, Airbnb addressed an open letter to Márton Nagy, the Minister of National Economy, urging recognition of the positive economic impact of home-sharing at both local and national levels. This comes after the minister’s mid-October announcement at a Portfolio conference that the government would impose a two-year moratorium on new Airbnb permits in Budapest (read more HERE.) Airbnb’s letter emphasised the importance of allowing Hungarian hosts to continue renting their homes, particularly during economically challenging times.

Airbnb’s open letter to Márton Nagy

Photo: depositphotos.com

Airbnb highlighted that Hungary remains a significant destination for both European and international visitors. The short-term rental market, according to the company, delivers undeniable benefits to the national economy.

Data from last year revealed that guests using short-term rentals contributed approximately EUR 1.5 billion to Hungary’s GDP and supported around 40,000 jobs.

The letter also warned that disproportionate and hasty restrictions could severely limit the income opportunities of local hosts and their families. Airbnb’s research and global experience suggest that blanket prohibitions often fail to achieve their intended goals while potentially harming local economies and hosts reliant on this revenue stream.

Acknowledging the complex challenges faced by cities, including the balance between tourism growth and community needs, Airbnb expressed support for the EU’s newly implemented short-term rental regulations. These rules are designed to help authorities establish fair, evidence-based policies that foster tourism growth while protecting community interests, such as housing availability.

While only Budapest’s District VI. has passed a complete ban on short-term rentals—set to take effect in early 2026—the citywide moratorium will impact new permit registrations for 2025 and 2026. Currently licensed units in other districts will continue to operate without disruption.

Read also:

• End of flourishing tourism in Budapest? Airbnb moratorium, stricter rules, tax increase to come! – UPDATED 
• How would an Airbnb ban affect Budapest’s rental market? 

Featured image: depositphotos.com