- The vacation rental platform Airbnb is largely ceasing its business in China.
- However, users from China should still be able to book accommodation abroad.
- In recent years, the Chinese government’s strict isolation measures during the corona pandemic have made business more difficult.
The company will no longer offer accommodation or “experiences” for visitors to China, as the AFP news agency learned from informed circles. However, users from China should still be able to book accommodation abroad.
The company declined to comment officially. Airbnb started its business in China six years ago. Since then, the company has had about 25 million customers there. According to the company, bookings in China accounted for only one percent of all bookings worldwide in recent years.
Airbnb faces stiff competition in China. In recent years, the strict isolation measures taken by the Chinese government during the corona pandemic have also made business more difficult. Airbnb expects the booming pre-pandemic travel business with Chinese customers abroad to pick up again once the authorities reopen the borders.