Indonesian Government Boosts Investment and Tourism in Q3 2026 as Bali, Nusa Tenggara See Rising Foreign Arrivals
Indonesia's government announced plans to strengthen investment and tourism in Q3 2026 to sustain economic growth. Foreign tourist arrivals in Bali exceeded 600,000 in June, up 4.63% month-on-month, while East Nusa Tenggara saw a 40%+ year-on-year increase. A new Bali-Phuket direct flight route is expected to further boost visitor numbers.
Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs announced on August 6, 2026, that it will focus on strengthening investment and the tourism sector to sustain national economic growth through Q3 2026. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto noted that Bali, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) continue to show positive development as leading destinations for both domestic and international tourists.
According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), domestic tourist trips reached 630.41 million from January to June 2026, the highest first-half figure since before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. Foreign tourist arrivals in Bali reached 605,013 in June 2026, up 4.63% from May. In East Nusa Tenggara, foreign arrivals reached 29,152, a 40.73% increase year-on-year and 19.85% month-on-month. In West Nusa Tenggara, tourist trips in June reached 1,368,707, up 2.73% from May.
The government highlighted improved air connectivity as a key driver, pointing to the new direct Bali-Phuket flight route by TransNusa and additional flights from Bangkok, which are expected to boost mobility between Indonesia and Thailand. These new routes are expected to attract families, digital nomads, and travelers seeking cultural and culinary experiences. Airlangga said stronger investment, tourism growth, and expanded international connectivity are expected to help drive Indonesia's economic growth in the second half of 2026.
Things to Consider
Travelers planning trips to Bali or the Nusa Tenggara islands should check newly launched or expanded flight routes, such as the Bali-Phuket direct connection and additional Bangkok flights, when planning itineraries. As tourist demand rises, expect increased congestion and higher prices for accommodation and transport during peak periods, so booking in advance is advisable. Those considering long-term stays or remote work in the region should also stay updated on local living costs and visa/stay permit requirements as tourism growth continues.
Source: METRO TV