DENPASAR, Bali – Bank Indonesia has reaffirmed that all transactions conducted by tourists in Indonesia, including in Bali, must be carried out in rupiah, as authorities seek to support the country’s weakening currency.
“Rupiah is the legally valid payment within the Indonesian territory,” Ronald Dungdung Parluhutan, Deputy Head of Bank Indonesia’s Bali Representative Office, said Friday, according to state news agency Antara.
The statement comes as the rupiah faces mounting pressure against the U.S. dollar. Indonesian law requires domestic transactions to be conducted in the national currency, although certain exemptions are granted for international trade and export-related contracts.
At present, the tourism sector is not included among those exemptions, prompting industry groups to seek greater flexibility.
Putu Winastra, chairman of the Bali chapter of the Indonesian Travel Agents Association (ASITA), said tourism businesses are urging the government to allow tour packages to be displayed in foreign currencies such as the U.S. dollar, particularly for international customers.
Under the proposal, prices could be listed in foreign currencies for reference purposes, while actual payments would still be settled in rupiah based on the prevailing exchange rate at the time of the transaction.
According to Winastra, the tourism sector plays a significant role in generating foreign exchange earnings for Indonesia. However, the recent depreciation of the rupiah has created operational challenges for tourism operators.
Many tour packages are priced months in advance in rupiah, while several operating costs — including imported goods, international services, and other dollar-linked expenses — have risen alongside the strengthening U.S. currency.
He said some tourism businesses are reluctant to display prices in foreign currencies on their official websites due to concerns about potential legal consequences under existing regulations.
The rupiah weakened to Rp17,804 per U.S. dollar in the spot market on Friday, reflecting ongoing pressure on the Indonesian currency.
Despite the currency challenges, Bali remains Indonesia’s leading tourism destination and is targeting approximately 6.6 million international visitor arrivals throughout 2026.
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this article may contain minor inaccuracies
in names, locations, or event details. Readers are welcome to contact the editorial team for any clarification.