Bali collects over USD 100,000 from new tourism tax

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Tjok Bagus Pemayun, the Head of the Bali Tourism Office, shared with journalists that the trial phase of the tourism tax, initiated on February 7th, 2024, has seen nearly 9,000 tourists willingly paying the fee. This positive response during the preliminary phase has been well-received by officials, reflecting the effectiveness of their outreach efforts and tourists’ willingness to contribute to Bali’s sustainability.

Ida Bagus Agung Partha Adnyana, the Chairman of the Indonesian Tourism Industry Association (GIPI) Bali, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the successful communication and tourists’ understanding and support of the sustainability initiative.

From February 14th onwards, international visitors will be mandated to pay an IDR 150,000 tourism tax before departing from Indonesia. Authorities are advising visitors to settle this fee before their arrival in Bali to streamline the process.

Although the payment system is accessible online, allowing for flexibility in payment timing, alternatives are provided for those encountering difficulties with the online transaction. Tourists can opt to pay in person at designated locations within Bali, including some travel agencies and hotels that are officially registered with industry bodies such as ASITA and the PHRI.

Upon payment of the tourism tax, tourists will receive a digital voucher, which they are recommended to keep readily available on their electronic devices for verification purposes.

Despite encouragement from officials for tourists to pay their tourism tax in advance, technical issues have been reported with the Love Bali website, presenting challenges for some intending to make online payments. Nevertheless, assurances have been made that the airport payment process will be swift, estimated to take only 23 seconds.

The Acting Governor of Bali, Sang Made Mahendra Jaya, speaking at the Bali Tourism Tax launch, acknowledged potential challenges for tourists, especially considering the fatigue and jet lag associated with long-haul flights, and the various queues they face upon arrival, including visa on arrival, immigration, customs, and now the tourism tax.

He highlighted the convenience and accountability of the Love Bali application system, which facilitates cashless payments and is supported by local hotels and tourist destinations. The Bali Provincial Government has been transparent about the allocation of the funds collected from the tourism levy, stating that it will be directed towards cultural preservation, environmental protection, and enhancements to infrastructure and tourist facilities.

This initiative, by encouraging responsible tourism, is anticipated to have a profound impact on Bali’s tourism sector. By contributing to the preservation and enhancement of the island’s cultural and natural assets, the tax aims to ensure a sustainable future for Bali as a prime tourist destination. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also supports the long-term viability and appeal of Bali as a top choice for tourists worldwide.

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