RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia's Tourism Minister, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, highlighted gastronomy strengthening to boost Indonesia’s tourism competitiveness rooted in local cultural traditions. At the opening of the Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF) 2026 in Bali, on Thursday, May 28, she expressed appreciation for BBTF 2026, which carries the theme: “Redefining Indonesia’s Gastronomic Journey: A Celebration of Taste, Cultures, and Sustainable Heritage.”

“This theme is also aligned with global trends that increasingly focus on authentic travel experiences, culinary tourism, and sustainable tourism,” Minister Widiyanti said in a statement received on Friday, May 29. Through this theme, BBTF showcases gastronomy as Indonesia’s cultural, historical, traditional, and sustainable identity beyond culinary experiences alone.

According to her, Indonesia’s gastronomy sector is gaining increasing international recognition. This was marked by Indonesia receiving the prestigious “The New Destination Champion Award 2026” from La Liste in Paris, France.

One of the main agendas of BBTF 2026 is the B2B Travex program, which brings together buyers and sellers through scheduled face-to-face business meetings. Tourism Minister said B2B Travex strategically expands market access, strengthens networks, and develops competitive tourism packages globally.

Minister Widiyanti added that BBTF connects industry players while supporting tourism destinations, MSME entrepreneurs, and regional local communities nationwide. She affirmed BBTF generates tangible benefits for communities while strengthening collaboration across Indonesia’s tourism industry sectors and partnerships.

Meanwhile, Chairperson of the BBTF 2026 Organizing Committee, I Putu Winastra, explained that this year’s BBTF is attended by 407 buyers from 44 countries and 286 sellers from four countries and 13 provinces across Indonesia.

Besides business matching, Bali & Beyond Travel Fair 2026 offers post-event tours showcasing destinations, services, and Indonesia’s cultural richness directly. Tourism Ministry also facilitates familiarization trips for 22 participants visiting North Sumatra, Yogyakarta, Tanjung Puting, Lombok, and Jakarta.