Italy to Tender All 12,000 Paid Beaches by 2027 in Bid to End Concession Monopoly
The Meloni government approved a reform that will put roughly 12,000 private beach concessions up for public tender by September 2027.
Private companies control a substantial portion of Italy’s nearly 4,900-mile coastline, operating paid beaches that charge up to €35 per day for umbrellas and loungers. Environmental association Legambiente estimates they occupy more than 42% of the coast, while the Ministry of Infrastructure reports a lower share based on different calculations. The sector generates over €2 billion annually, yet the state receives only between €80 million and €100 million in royalties, a disparity highlighted by the Court of Auditors.
After years of postponement and EU pressure, the Meloni administration passed a reform mandating that all 12,000 paid beaches be re-tendered by September 30, 2027, with contracts lasting five to 20 years and financial compensation for current holders. The move aims to introduce competition and align Italy with the 2009 Bolkestein directive, but many operators worry that the process could favor large tourism groups or investment funds over long-standing family businesses.
Why it matters
The reform could reshape access to Italy’s beaches, affecting tourism, local economies and public use of coastal resources.
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