Indonesia, China Strengthen Tourism Ties to Boost Traveler Numbers
Jakarta, Indonesianpost.com – Reported by Antara (May 25, 2025), Indonesia and China have officially agreed to enhance their collaboration in the tourism sector through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at boosting tourism exchanges and increasing visitor numbers between the two nations.
“This MoU will provide greater opportunities to showcase our tourist destinations to the vast Chinese market, and similarly, introduce Chinese destinations to Indonesia,” said Indonesian Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana in a statement on Sunday, May 25, 2025.
The MoU was signed during the working visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Indonesia, which took place from Saturday, May 24, to Monday, May 26.
The agreement outlines a broad scope of cooperation, with a strong focus on increasing mutual tourist visits and fostering growth in the tourism industry. Key elements include the exchange of vital tourism-related information and opportunities between both countries’ tourism ministries and businesses, facilitating easier access to each other’s markets.
In addition, the two nations plan to collaborate on attracting tourists from third countries through joint international promotional efforts.
A significant development is the establishment of official non-profit travel agencies in each other’s countries, aimed at enhancing direct and focused tourism promotions.
The MoU also includes provisions for the exchange of tourism data and market trends, ensuring both countries stay updated on tourism dynamics.
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The agreement leaves room for further cooperation in other areas, allowing for a flexible and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations’ tourism industries.
Minister Wardhana highlighted that China is a key strategic partner for Indonesia in the development of human resources in the tourism sector. This includes Mandarin language training provided by the Chinese government to students at Indonesian tourism polytechnics.
Chinese tourists have already played a significant role in Indonesia’s tourism industry. In 2024, Chinese visitors accounted for 1.19 million of the 13.9 million foreign tourist arrivals, marking a 52 percent increase from 2023.
The growth continued into the first quarter of 2025, with 279,040 foreign tourist visits, reflecting a 1.15 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
To further boost tourism exchanges, the Chinese government plans to open a representative office in Indonesia for tourism promotion. In return, Indonesia will have the opportunity to establish a tourism promotion office in China.
“This MoU is expected to strengthen bilateral ties and significantly contribute to the growth of the tourism sectors in both countries,” Minister Wardhana concluded. (BL)