ITB Berlin “an important opportunity” for Indonesia
ITB Berlin News spoke with Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism Sandiaga Uno who is confident that the destination’s tourism figures will be back to 2019 levels this year.
Are you satisfied with the evolution of tourism to Indonesia in 2023?
We were very grateful to have to upgrade our projections twice in 2023 from an initial forecast of 7.4 million international visitors to a final figure of 11.5 million international tourists. We could do even more if we improve flight connectivity, because many destinations are ready to welcome travellers. In 2024, the government set a target of 14.3 million international visitors. But I am confident we could reach 16.7 million foreign travellers, like in 2019. I believe Australia, India and China together will help in delivering those figures.
How is the European market performing?
The European market is growing according to our projections with close to 2 million travellers last year, only 5% below 2019. Europe is our fifth largest inbound market, after ASEAN countries, Australia, India and China. France, Germany and the UK are the top markets. We aim to see Europe represent 20% to 25% of all international arrivals again.
You launched 5 priority destinations dubbed as “New Bali”. Are you satisfied with the results?
I think out of the five, I feel particularly happy with the results for Borobudur, Labuan Bajo and Mandalika. Lake Toba needs more flights and more accommodation. In Likupang, in North Sulawesi, we are going to shift to regenerative tourism by focusing on marine life and the preservation of the environment. ITB Berlin is an opportunity to present all of them.
