Italy to Open Beach Concessions to Competitive Bidding by 2027
New legislation addresses EU demands for transparency and competition in Italy's beach sector.
- Existing beach licenses will remain valid until September 2027, with possible extensions to March 2028.
- Current operators will receive compensation for investments if they lose their concessions.
- The European Commission has criticized Italy's lack of transparency and competition for nearly two decades.
- Economists believe the new rules could lower costs and improve service quality for beachgoers.
- Italian beach clubs generate significant revenue but have paid minimal fees to the government.