The Medef commission for "Destination France" Tourism has asked the French government to clarify the legal status of travel planners through administrative and regulatory actions. In a report dated September 14, 2026, the commission outlined 14 proposals, with six already ready to be implemented. Three of these relate to mountain resorts. The remaining eight require further preparation, such as identifying existing laws, aligning administrative practices, and coordinating between ministries. The commission is focusing on short-term regulatory changes, such as simplifying procedures and removing outdated formalities, as the legislative agenda is full until the next presidential election.
One of the 14 proposals focuses on the role of travel planners. The commission notes that some travel planners operate as advisory services, which places them outside the scope of the tourism code. However, others receive commissions or guide bookings, making them functionally similar to traditional travel agencies. This creates an unfair competitive situation, as these planners avoid obligations such as financial guarantees and liability, while offering similar services. The commission is calling for a clear distinction between advisory services and travel intermediaries, with specific criteria to ensure fair competition and consumer protection.
Two other proposals address business tourism. One calls for simplifying the regulation of commercial events, which currently requires event organizers and park managers to submit detailed numerical data for a public portal. However, the portal has not been updated since 2022, leaving the requirement without a clear purpose. This creates unnecessary legal uncertainty and administrative costs estimated at nearly one million euros annually. The commission suggests abolishing or reducing these obligations through regulatory changes. Another proposal seeks to improve the issuance of short-stay visas for business travelers, as current practices vary by location and may create unnecessary burdens for regular visitors to France.
A fourth proposal targets the aviation sector, specifically the document checks at boarding, which require airlines to verify that a passenger's identity matches their travel documents. This process does not constitute a full airport security check and has been abolished in several European countries for intra-Schengen flights. The Medef commission recommends repealing this requirement for domestic and intra-Schengen flights departing from French airports.
Lastly, the commission highlights a delay in implementing the Échaniz-Le Meur law of November 19, 2024, which aims to improve the registration of short-term rental properties. Although the law has been in force since May 20, 2026, the national online service required for registration is not yet available. As a result, platforms like Airbnb and Booking do not block listings without a registration number, and the intended correction of market distortions has not occurred. The commission is urging the Ministry of Tourism and the DGE to set a firm schedule for launching the service and activating the blocking mechanism.
France's Tourism Commission Proposes Regulatory Changes for Travel Planners and Industry Streamlining
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