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Airbnb executive 'puzzled' by Japan's demand to cancel bookings

Company unclear about responsibility to minimize disruptions to customers

Airbnb has pulled the listings of hosts who have yet to register under Japan's new law, and will cancel bookings of rooms without licenses after June 15.

TOKYO -- Home-sharing company Airbnb expressed discomfort over the Japanese government's request that the company cancel existing bookings for premises that have yet to be officially registered.

"We are puzzled and disagree with the decision of the Japanese government," said Chris Lehane, head of global policy and public affairs at the company, pointing out that the decision is inconsistent with Japan's goal to attract 60 million foreign tourists by 2030.

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