Surge in Chinese Tourists, Indonesia Targets 2 Million in 2025

Jakarta – Indonesia is experiencing a strong rebound in Chinese tourist arrivals, with officials aiming for 2 million visitors from China in 2025. The recovery follows a sharp decline during the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects growing travel demand, improved flight connectivity, and strengthened bilateral relations.

In 2018, Indonesia welcomed over 2.1 million Chinese tourists, the highest number on record. After the pandemic slump, arrivals rebounded to 787,924 in 2023 and surged to nearly 1.2 million in 2024. Indonesian officials and businesses anticipate continued growth, citing increasing direct flights and promotional efforts between the two nations.

Rising Numbers and Optimistic Projections

Indonesia’s tourism industry has seen a steady increase in Chinese visitors over the past two years. The Indonesian government attributes this trend to targeted tourism promotions and closer cooperation with China’s travel sector. The government hopes to regain pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2025.

Djauhari Oratmangun, Indonesia’s ambassador to China, emphasized that increasing direct flights between major cities in both countries has made travel more convenient for Chinese tourists. “We are optimistic about reaching 2 million Chinese visitors this year, considering the steady increase in arrivals and demand for travel to Indonesia,” Oratmangun said.

Chinese travelers have shown a particular interest in Indonesia’s renowned island destinations, including Bali, Lombok, and the Riau Islands. The country’s tourism appeal was further boosted when Indonesia received the “Best Island Destination” award from the Chinese edition of Travel and Leisure magazine.

Economic Impact and Tourism Industry Growth

The resurgence of Chinese tourists is expected to significantly boost Indonesia’s economy, particularly in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors. According to tourism businesses, Chinese visitors tend to spend more on average than tourists from other Asian countries, making them a key market for Indonesia’s tourism sector.

“Chinese tourists contribute significantly to Indonesia’s tourism revenue, as they often engage in shopping, dining, and cultural experiences,” said Nur Evi Rahmawati, coordinator for social and cultural information at the Indonesian Embassy in Beijing.

With Chinese tourists favoring high-end resorts, private tours, and cultural experiences, businesses catering to this segment are preparing for increased demand. Industry leaders are calling for further investment in infrastructure and services to accommodate the expected surge in visitors.

Government Initiatives and Future Plans

The Indonesian government, in collaboration with Chinese authorities, has launched multiple initiatives to attract more visitors. These include participating in tourism exhibitions, digital marketing campaigns, and bilateral agreements that simplify visa applications and streamline travel processes.

Tourism authorities have also introduced specialized travel packages targeting Chinese visitors, highlighting Indonesia’s natural landscapes, culinary diversity, and unique cultural heritage.

To sustain growth, the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is working on expanding direct flights and exploring new routes between Chinese cities and Indonesia’s key tourist destinations. Recent agreements with airlines from both nations have already resulted in an increase in flight frequency, making travel more accessible.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Future for Indonesia-China Tourism

Despite global economic uncertainties, Indonesia remains confident in its tourism revival. The increasing number of Chinese visitors signals a strong recovery, and officials believe that continued efforts to enhance travel experiences will drive further growth.

As Indonesia moves toward its 2 million visitor target for 2025, the country’s tourism industry stands to benefit from the deepening ties between Jakarta and Beijing. With a mix of strategic planning, infrastructure development, and targeted marketing, Indonesia hopes to solidify its position as a top destination for Chinese travelers.

Indonesia’s Tourism Recovery: Chinese Visitors Lead the Way (March 26, 2025)

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