Bali and Timor-Leste Expand Tourism and Trade Cooperation
Bali and Timor-Leste used a business forum to widen cooperation beyond tourism, while Bali reported 4,6 million foreign visitors through 30 September 2026.
By Pandi Muktar
Editor: Mursyid Sonsang
· 2 min read
Denpasar — At the Bali–Timor-Leste Business Forum, Bali reported approximately 4,6 million foreign visitors through 30 September 2026 and identified tourism, agriculture, livestock, fisheries and trade as priorities for wider cooperation with Timor-Leste. The forum was held in Bali on 2–3 October 2026.
The change comes as Bali seeks to broaden economic ties beyond tourism. Governor I Wayan Koster said the province was ready to work with Timor-Leste across sectors that could create business opportunities, support economic growth and improve welfare in both regions. The forum’s theme was “Connecting Opportunities, Building Prosperity.”
For foreign visitors and residents, the development signals an effort to deepen links between Bali and Timor-Leste in areas that affect travel, food production, maritime activity and cross-border commerce. The reported visitor figure covers foreign arrivals to Bali through 30 September, while the cooperation priorities describe sectors under discussion rather than completed agreements.
Why the Bali–Timor-Leste forum matters to visitors and businesses
Tourism remains central to the relationship, but the agenda also includes agriculture, livestock, fisheries and trade. That broader focus could make future cooperation relevant to companies, investors and visitors connected to supply chains, food, transport, maritime services and tourism.
Around 30 thousand foreign visitors to Bali through the period came from Timor-Leste. The 2–3 October forum was hosted in Bali and brought attention to the province’s role as a destination and business centre.
The forum followed earlier discussions on strengthening economic relations between Indonesia and Timor-Leste. The event brought together government representatives and business interests, with cooperation framed around opportunities in several productive sectors.
Sources
Read next
More on this story
Visas & Immigration
Bali visa rules explained: validity, stays and immigration penalties
Indonesia’s official eVisa guidance separates visa validity from permitted stay and sets out the consequences of overstays, while immigration enforcem…
Latest in Business & Investment
Today’s top story
Related
