(Oct 12): Sizing up the home-sharing industry in Singapore has become the economist’s puzzle as the aspiring “Smart Nation” grapples with resistance to next-door strangers.
Despite government rules restricting the likes of Airbnb operating in Singapore, there are signs that home-sharing has become more prolific in the city state. Residents’ complaints about short-term rentals for private homes have climbed this year, while a surge in tourist arrivals isn’t being mirrored in hotel receipts, indicating more visitors may be staying in private homes.
It highlights the challenge Singapore’s government is facing in trying to adapt residents to a changing global economy. Authorities are seeking to build Singapore into a digital economy, but has to balance those imperatives without alienating citizens who say they’re distressed about strangers sweeping through their neighbourhoods.