As of mid-August 2025, the Provincial Government of Bali has collected approximately USD 14,8 million from the Foreign Tourist Levy.
This amount marks a decrease compared to the previous year, which saw collections reach around USD 20.5 million in 2024. Bali Governor I Wayan Koster stated that the current achievement is still below expectations.
“This is not yet optimal. It’s still far from what we had hoped for,” Koster said in front of tourism industry players in Denpasar on Friday (August 15,2025).
For Environment and Infrastructure Improvements
At that occasion Koster also explained that the funds from the Foreign Tourist Levy are being prioritized for the preservation of Bali’s culture and natural environment, improving the quality of tourism services, and addressing waste management.
However, the exact proportion allocated for waste management was not specified. Koster emphasized that the management of these funds will be carried out in a transparent and accountable manner.
“These funds are truly making a tangible in realizing culturally-rooted, high-quality, and dignified tourism in Bali,” Koster added as quoted from Radar Buleleng.
Beyond local needs, the funds are also used to ensure order, comfort, and security for foreign tourist visiting the island. They are also allocated for infrastructure improvements, the development of eco-friendly transportation, and enhancing tourism information services.
Commission Up to 3%
To optimize the collection of the Foreign Tourist Levy, Koster encouraged tourism business operators to actively participate as benefit partners or end points. This collaboration is considered crucial to ensure the smooth operation of the levy system.
He also acknowledged some challenges in implementing Bali Regional Regulation No. 6 of 2023, particularly regarding incentives for business partners. To address this, the regulation has been revised into Bali Provincial Regulation No. 2 of 2025, which has already received approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, along with its implementing regulations.
Under the new rules, participationg business partners will be eligible for a commission of up to 3% of the levy payments they handle, with payouts made on a quarterly basis. Overall, the Foreign Tourist Levy funds will be directed toward strengthening infrastructure, preserving culture and the environment, developing sustainable transportation, and tackling waste issues.
“In addition, the funds will help improve tourism information services to ensure visitors feel safe and comfortable during their stay in Bali”, Koster concluded.
Sources: Kompas.com, Radar Buleleng
Feat Image: via Bali Provincial Govt