BADUNG, DEWATA.NEWS – Tourism stakeholders in Bali are raising concerns over multiple challenges affecting visitor numbers and business sustainability, including environmental issues, natural events, and rising travel costs.
The concerns were highlighted during a tourism business networking and collaboration event held in Kuta, Badung, on April 14, 2026, attended by industry players from across Indonesia.
Chair of the Indonesian Tourism Industry Association (ASPPI) Bali chapter, I Gusti Putu Ayu Sumarni, said recent events have had a noticeable impact on tourist arrivals.
“Bali is currently under intense public attention, and as a travel agent, I can clearly feel the impact. Since the flooding last year, we have experienced a decline in visitor numbers,” she said.
In addition to past flooding incidents, growing concerns over waste management have also contributed to negative perceptions among potential visitors.
Rising airfare prices are another major concern for the tourism sector. ASPPI Chairman Azwi Awi explained that increased aviation fuel costs have driven ticket prices higher, affecting travel demand.
“There were previous commitments to reduce or remove certain taxes to keep airfare affordable. That is what we are still waiting for. If taxes are reduced, ticket prices could become more accessible,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bali Provincial Tourism Office representative AA Made Anggia Widana stated that the government has taken steps to address key issues, including waste management, which has become a priority.
“We are conducting direct outreach to communities and also working to ensure there are no travel warnings issued by key markets such as South Korea,” he said.
The event, known as AJEG ASPPI, brought together more than 90 buyers and 30 sellers, including travel agencies, tour operators, accommodation providers, transportation services, and tourism activity operators.
For international visitors, the developments reflect ongoing efforts by Bali’s tourism sector to maintain its global reputation while addressing operational and environmental challenges.