The President of the Ghana Hotels Association, Dr. Edward Ackah-Nyamike, has cautioned that the rapid expansion of Airbnb in Ghana, without proper regulation, could negatively affect the hotel industry.
According to him, the concern of hotel operators is not about competition, but about the unfair regulatory and tax conditions under which Airbnb operates compared to hotels.
In an interview, Dr. Ackah-Nyamike explained that hotels have never been threatened by competition because they offer services that go far beyond just providing rooms.
“Our challenge has never been competition, because hotels have a unique advantage in the range of services they offer,” he said.
He noted that hotels function as full-service facilities, offering accommodation, food and beverages, entertainment, recreational activities, and in some cases car rental services, all in one location.
Dr. Ackah-Nyamike said the real issue lies in regulation and taxation.
He pointed out that hotels are required to pay several taxes, levies, and regulatory fees, while many Airbnb operators do not face the same obligations.
This, he said, allows Airbnb properties to offer lower prices.
“What we are unhappy about is the lack of regulation in that sector especially when it comes to taxes, levies, and regulatory fees that hotels pay but they do not,” he stated.
He acknowledged that short-term rental platforms can support the hospitality sector, particularly during peak periods when hotels are fully booked.
“There are times when hotels are fully occupied, and the only option available to guests is an Airbnb. In that sense, it helps the industry,” he said.
However, he stressed that the uneven regulatory environment remains the main concern for hotel operators.
Dr. Ackah-Nyamike said the Ghana Hotels Association would have no objection to Airbnb operations if they were properly regulated and held to the same standards as hotels.
“If that sector is well regulated, pays taxes and levies, and complies with requirements from agencies such as the FDA, Fire Service, and EPA, then we have no problem with it,” he said.
He warned that failing to close the regulatory gap could distort pricing in the hospitality market and put traditional hotels at a disadvantage, even as demand for accommodation continues to rise.
