Indonesia has recorded a record surge in the number of tourists arriving from China, with the total reaching 150,800 visitors in February 2026. This figure represents the highest level since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting a 69% increase compared to the same period last year, and a 36% rise compared to the previous month. This increase is largely attributed to the impact of the Chinese New Year holidays, which encourage travel.
According to a report from the Central Statistics Agency of Indonesia, approximately 52% of Chinese tourists entered Indonesia through Bali International Airport, while the remainder arrived via Jakarta and Surabaya. The island of Bali also saw a notable increase in visitor numbers, with visits rising by 78% compared to the previous month.
Details of the Event
This increase in the number of Chinese tourists comes at a critical time for the Indonesian tourism industry, which has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Atin Hartono, Deputy Head of the Central Statistics Agency, noted that this surge is significantly due to the long holidays associated with the Chinese New Year, with a peak in visitor numbers recorded two days after the holiday, when around 7,500 tourists entered in a single day.
Data from the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism also indicated that the number of Chinese tourists rose by 29% during the week following the Chinese New Year, reflecting a remarkable recovery in this vital sector.
Background & Context
Historically, Indonesia has been one of the preferred tourist destinations for Chinese travelers, boasting a cultural and natural diversity that makes it attractive to visitors. However, this industry has been significantly affected in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a sharp decline in tourist numbers. As recovery begins, Indonesia is keen to boost tourism as part of its economic strategy.
Tourism is one of the main sources of revenue in Indonesia, contributing significantly to the GDP and providing job opportunities. Therefore, the increase in the number of Chinese tourists is seen as a positive indicator of recovery in this sector.
Impact & Consequences
This increase in the number of Chinese tourists serves as a strong boost to the Indonesian economy, creating new job opportunities and enhancing economic activity in tourist areas. The return of Chinese tourists also reflects growing confidence in Indonesia's ability to regain its status as a major tourist destination in the region.
The Indonesian government hopes that these positive trends will continue, which will help enhance investments in tourism infrastructure and improve services provided to tourists.
Regional Significance
The tourism flow from China to Indonesia exemplifies how international tourism impacts the local economy. For Arab countries, there are lessons to be learned from Indonesia's experience in attracting foreign tourists, especially amid increasing competition among tourist destinations.
Furthermore, strengthening tourism relations between Arab countries and Indonesia could open new avenues for economic and cultural cooperation, benefiting both sides.
In conclusion, the significant increase in the number of Chinese tourists to Indonesia represents a positive sign of the global tourism recovery and underscores the importance of enhancing international cooperation in this field.