Governor Koster of Bali has confirmed his intention to implement a tourism tax for foreign visitors to the island. After months of speculation, the Governor officially announced the decision in Denpasar on Wednesday, July 12th.
Under the new policy, each international tourist entering Bali will be required to pay a fee of IDR 150,000. This is approximately USD 10, but it will be collected in Indonesian Rupiah to prevent any losses due to currency exchange fluctuations. It’s important to note that this fee is separate from the existing IDR 500,000 fee required for a 30-day visa on arrival, which also has been a subject of discussion among Bali’s leaders who are considering raising it.
The collected fees will be utilized to support the promotion, protection, and preservation of Balinese culture, as well as the delicate ecological systems of the island. The approach will be well-planned, directed, structured, measurable, and most importantly, sustainable.
Governor Koster emphasized that Bali has become a prominent national and international tourism destination, contributing positively to the region and the nation as a whole. However, he also acknowledged the significant negative impacts associated with tourism.
The announcement of the proposed tourism tax triggered intense discussions among Bali enthusiasts online. They argued that such a tax would be the tipping point for them and that they might start exploring other destinations.
Numerous netizens and frequent Bali visitors expressed that they might opt for nearby Thailand instead, as it doesn’t impose a tourism tax on arrival, and most passport holders can enjoy a visa-free 30-day stay in the country.
While the implementation of the tourism tax is expected to take effect in 2024, there is a possibility that the legislative changes could be expedited, allowing for an earlier implementation.
