BADUNG, BALI – Bali Governor, I Wayan Koster reaffirmed that Bali remains a destination loved and trusted by the world. However, he emphasised that this trust must be protected through stronger destination governance, solutions to key issues, and a shared commitment to culture-based, quality, and dignified tourism.
The statement was delivered during the Closing Press Conference of the 12th Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2026, held on Saturday, 30 May 2026, at the Bali International Convention Centre, The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali.
“Bali must remain Bali. Bali’s greatest strength is not only its natural beauty, but also the richness, uniqueness, and nobility of its culture, which is deeply connected to the spiritual life of the Balinese people. This is what makes Bali continue to be loved and trusted by the world,” said Governor Koster.
BBTF 2026 recorded transaction potential of IDR 6.9 trillion, with 407 buyers from 44 countries and 286 sellers from 4 countries and 12 provinces across Indonesia. This achievement reflects the continued appeal of Bali and Indonesia in the international tourism market, despite global economic and geopolitical dynamics.
Governor Koster noted that tourism plays a major role in Bali’s economy, benefiting not only hotels and restaurants, but also transportation, MSMEs, farmers, fishermen, artisans, and local communities. At the same time, he stressed that issues such as waste, traffic congestion, infrastructure, energy, licensing, and respect for Balinese cultural values must be addressed seriously.
“Issues such as waste, traffic congestion, water, energy, and governance violations must not be ignored. These must be solved together. Bali tourism must be managed in an orderly and disciplined manner, based on culture, quality, and dignity,” he said.
He also appreciated BBTF as an effective platform to promote Bali and Indonesia, while encouraging the event to grow with wider coverage, richer content, and higher quality in future editions.
Chairman of BBTF 2026 and Chairman of DPD ASITA Bali, I Putu Winastra, S.AB., M.A.P., said that BBTF’s value does not stop at transaction figures. Its greater impact continues through follow-up contracts, new itineraries, market expansion, stronger partnerships, and buyers’ decisions to bring more travellers to Indonesia.
“Transaction value is important, but it is not the only measure of success. A travel trade show does not end when the booth closes or when the final business meeting is completed. Its greatest value continues after the event,” said Winastra.
According to him, BBTF 2026 delivered three important messages: confidence in Bali and Indonesia remains strong, the global market is becoming more selective, and future competition will depend on destination readiness.
“Promotion alone is no longer enough. Destinations must be ready in terms of product, service, access, infrastructure, storytelling, and management. Buyers need confidence that what they sell can be delivered consistently on the ground,” he added.
As BBTF 2026 concluded, the committee introduced the early direction for the 13th Bali & Beyond Travel Fair 2027, which will be held from 9–11 June 2027 at the Bali International Convention Centre, The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, under the theme “Bali & Beyond: Regenerative Travel, Elevated.”
“With the results and lessons from BBTF 2026, we are introducing BBTF 2027 with the theme ‘Bali & Beyond: Regenerative Travel, Elevated.’ This theme will take Indonesia’s tourism conversation to a higher level – not only about growth, but about the quality of growth and positive impact for communities, culture, and nature.” Winastra explained.
BBTF 2026 serves as a reminder that Bali remains trusted by the world. Protecting that trust requires collaboration, discipline, destination readiness, quality products, strong governance, and a commitment to ensuring tourism grows with dignity and wider benefits for the community. **
