Bali Targets Illegal Foreign Businesses in Tourism Crackdown

Bali Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign Businesses in Tourism Sector DENPASAR, BALI – The Balinese government is taking a firm stance against the rise of illegal businesses operated by foreigners within its tourism sector. A newly formed special task force will conduct a comprehensive audit of tourism licenses across the island, targeting businesses operating without proper permits or local representation. The initiative follows numerous complaints from local businesses struggling to compete with unlicensed foreign operators. "We've received widespread complaints from local small business owners who feel they are being unfairly undercut," Wayan Koster, the Governor of Bali, stated in a recent press conference. "This task force is crucial to protecting our local economy and ensuring a fair and sustainable tourism industry." The task force will focus on all sectors of tourism, including vehicle rentals and accommodations. In Badung regency alone, an estimated 400 tourism permits are held by foreign nationals, many of whom do not reside permanently in Bali and lack established offices. The government plans to introduce new regulations to facilitate joint enforcement efforts with the Bali Police, and all tourism agencies will be required to register with the local tourism association. This decisive action demonstrates Bali's commitment to protecting its local businesses and preserving the integrity of its tourism industry. The new regulations and collaborative enforcement efforts are expected to create a more level playing field for local entrepreneurs and contribute to the long-term stability of Bali's economy.