Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, has announced ambitious tourism goals for 2025, with which it intends to attract between 14.6 and 16 million international visitors. This represents a slight increase compared to the 2024 target of 14.3 million visitors, which underlines the country’s commitment to boost its tourism sector while balancing sustainable development and economic growth.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism aims to encourage tourists to explore exotic and unique destinations, not just overpopulated areas like Bali.
The promotional campaigns will focus on ecotourism and cultural tourism, showing the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of the 17,000 islands of Indonesia, among which the island of Komodo stands out, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature and the only place in the world where the well-known “Komodo dragon” lives in the wild.
This approach aligns with global trends that favor sustainable travel and helps preserve the natural and cultural assets that make Indonesia magnificent and unique.
The Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, described the country’s plans during a press conference, highlighting the importance of international and national tourism. While the focus on international arrivals is expected to bring with it significant economic benefits, the ministry is also recalibrating national tourism goals, with the aim of reaching 1.08 million national tourists by 2025. This is a slight decrease compared to the 2023 and 2024 targets from 1.2 to 1.4 million tourists, which reflects a change in priorities towards quality over quantity.
Economic Contributions of Tourism
According to Travel and tour world, tourism remains a fundamental engine of Indonesia’s economy and the sector is projected to contribute 4.6% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2025. This translates into revenues of between 19 and 22.1 million dollars, driven by increased international arrivals and strategic investments in tourism infrastructure.
In addition, the tourism sector is expected to create 25.8 million jobs, which will further consolidate its role as a cornerstone of the country’s economic development. Job creation covers several segments, such as hospitality, transport, tourist services and local crafts, which provides opportunities for communities throughout the archipelago.
Projections of international arrivals and income
Indonesia’s interest in attracting international visitors is supported by strong marketing campaigns and the development of new tourist destinations. For December 2024 alone, the country expects between 1 and 1.32 million international arrivals, which will generate revenues of between 1.4 and 1.85 million dollars.
According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), the country recorded 11.6 million international arrivals in October 2024. These figures highlight Indonesia’s potential to achieve its 2025 goals, backed by a diversified tourism portfolio that includes popular destinations such as Bali, Jakarta and Yogyakarta, as well as emerging places like Labuan Bajo and Raja Ampat.
Domestic tourism: adjustment of objectives
While international tourism is central, domestic travel remains an integral part of Indonesia’s tourism strategy. The 2025 target of 1.08 million national tourists, although lower than in previous years, reflects a shift towards sustainable and responsible tourism. The ministry aims to encourage Indonesians to explore lesser-known destinations, reducing pressure on overpopulated areas such as Bali.
Promotional campaigns will focus on ecotourism and cultural tourism, showing the diverse landscapes and rich heritage of the 17,000 islands of Indonesia. This approach aligns with global trends that favor sustainable travel and helps preserve the natural and cultural assets that make Indonesia unique.
Challenges and opportunities
Indonesia’s tourism sector faces a number of challenges, including the need to modernize infrastructure, manage overcrowding in popular destinations and address environmental issues. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and investment.
The government’s commitment to sustainability is evident in initiatives such as the development of ecological housing, the promotion of renewable energy in tourist areas and the application of stricter rules to protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Collaborations with private actors and international organizations further enhance Indonesia’s ability to address these challenges effectively.
Bali and more
Bali remains the crown jewel of tourism in Indonesia and attracts millions of visitors every year. However, emerging places such as Mandalika, Labuan Bajo and Morotai are gaining ground thanks to specific investments and promotional efforts.
For example, Labuan Bajo, gateway to Komodo National Park, has experienced significant improvements in infrastructure and hospitality services. Similarly, Mandalika is developing as a sports tourism center, which will host international events such as MotoGP races.
As Indonesia moves towards its tourism goals for 2025, collaboration between the government, the private sector and local communities will be crucial. Ensuring sustainable and inclusive growth remains a top priority. By focusing on both international and national tourism, Indonesia aspires to create a resilient and dynamic tourism sector that benefits all stakeholders.