Bali Property Experts Urge Local Developers to Learn from Foreign Firms, Flag Nominee and Permit Issues

GIANYAR, Nusa Bali — As foreign property developers increasingly enter Bali's real estate market, industry voices say local developers should view this trend not just critically but as an opportunity to learn and improve their own standards.

Speaking at the HIPMI Real Estate Development Program 2026 held at UC Silver in Batubulan on November 7, Angela Hanggi, Project Director of Ciputra Beach Resort, called on local developers to improve building quality, digital marketing, and corporate management. She noted that foreign developers hold advantages in product concept design, technology, international marketing, and brand building that local players could learn from.

Hanggi pointed to ongoing concerns such as the use of nominee arrangements and construction beginning before permits are fully secured, noting these practices are not limited to foreign developers and may also occur among local ones. She said local developers should study foreign competitors' strengths, including investor transparency, regular reporting on occupancy and revenue, and professional property management and customer service.

She also flagged that Bali's property development remains concentrated in already congested areas, saying infrastructure issues like traffic congestion and flooding should factor into decisions on new project locations. Hanggi categorized Bali's property market into four segments — first homes, second homes, investment properties, and commercial properties — and said future growth will depend on wellness and long-stay concepts, more balanced development across regions, permit compliance, and industry collaboration.

While this report does not indicate any immediate regulatory change affecting tourists or residents, it reflects industry-level concerns about market integrity, unauthorized construction practices, and nominee arrangements that are relevant to anyone considering property transactions in Bali.