The suspension aims to tackle issues arising from the surge in tourist numbers following the pandemic. The timeframe for the moratorium is unclear, with speculation that it could last up to a decade.

The move comes after a significant increase in the number of hotels and foreign visitors to Bali. The number of hotels rose from 507 in 2019 to 541 in 2023, while foreign visitors reached 2.9 million in the first half of 2024 alone.

This rapid growth has led to traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and cultural tensions, including issues with disrespectful tourist behavior and concerns over job competition with the local population.

The government is also introducing measures such as a tourism tax and plans for improved transportation infrastructure to better manage the influx of visitors.

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The moratorium is expected to have a significant impact on Bali’s tourism industry, which is a major contributor to the island’s economy.

The government believes that the measures are necessary to ensure the sustainable development of tourism in Bali and to protect the island’s unique culture and environment.