Indonesian tourism is regaining momentum

Article Excerpt

Tourism is an important part of the Indonesian economy, contributing directly and indirectly about 5% to the country’s GDP in normal years. In 2019, Indonesia welcomed 16 million international tourists, who spent $17 billion during that year. The industry is credited with employing an estimated 4.7 million people, or 4% of the total workforce. The Indonesian tourism industry grew considerably between 2000 and 2019 with foreign arrivals increasing by 240%. Most of the tourists hailed from China, Malaysia, and Australia. They spent on average $1,100 per day and stayed for 8.7 days. They spent most of their money on accommodation, transport, shopping, and food. The most visited destinations were Bali, Denpasar, Jakarta, and Batam. Globally, Indonesia ranks 21st in terms of foreign tourist arrivals. It also ranks 32nd in the latest Tourism Development Index—a strong improvement from the 2019 report. The index measures tourism in 140 countries based on a set of criteria that includes safety, health and hygiene, infrastructure, and price competitiveness. COVID-19 restrictions limited…