ASITA Improves Indonesia's Quality Tourism and Global Competitiveness

RRI.CO.ID, Makassar - The Indonesia's Vice Minister of Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa, urged all members of the Association of Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies (ASITA) to bolster collaboration with the government to promote quality, competitive, and sustainable Indonesian tourism. She affirmed the importance of ASITA's role in developing competitive tour packages while optimally utilizing various government incentives to encourage the growth of the national tourism sector.

As the oldest tour and travel association in Indonesia, ASITA plays a crucial role not only in supporting the promotion and sales of tour packages, but also as a partner to the Indonesian government in providing input and constructive criticism on national tourism policies.

The Vice Minister of Tourism hopes that ASITA will become part of the tour and travel associations that can develop the quality of Indonesian tourism. "Hopefully, the initiatives and ideas presented and generated at this event can advance the tourism sector," said Ni Luh at the opening of the National Working Meeting in Makassar on Wednesday, May 7, 2026.

On this occasion, the Deputy Minister explained several strategic steps the Indonesian government is taking to address global challenges, including high airfares that impact tourist mobility. He explained that the government has provided several incentives, including a 100% Value Added Tax (VAT) reduction.

She also mentioned that the government has set a 38% surcharge and a 0% import duty exemption for aircraft parts. These policies aim to help reduce domestic flight ticket prices.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Tourism has adjusted its market strategy by shifting its promotional focus to the Asia and Asia Pacific region and strengthening the medium and short haul markets. This strategy is considered in line with global trends where tourists now tend to choose destinations that are closer and more efficient.

Ni Luh Puspa stated that the Ministry of Tourism continues to encourage the creation of a tourism ecosystem that is interconnected between the events, tourism and travel, and hospitality industries. "So that everyone can collaborate well," she said.