Indonesia is targeting between 16 million and 17.6 million international tourist arrivals by 2026, with six tourism-focused Special Economic Zones (SEZs) expected to play a key role in achieving that goal.
“The tourism sector supports our 2026 target of attracting 16–17.6 million international visitors, with projected foreign exchange earnings of around US$24 billion. This US$24 billion is equivalent in value to our palm oil exports,” said Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto during a coordination meeting on SEZ development on Wednesday (October 21, 2026).
The six tourism SEZs include Mandalika, Kura-Kura Bali, Tanjung Kelayang, Tanjung Lesung, Lido, and Likupang.
Tourism SEZs Generate Strong Economic Impact
Airlangga Hartarto also highlighted the economic potential of several tourism SEZs in 2027.
Kura-Kura Bali SEZ is expected to attract 600,000 visitors and generate IDR 600 billion in economic value, particularly as more commercial outlets begin operating within the development. The zone is also projected to contribute US$3.66 billion in foreign exchange earnings.
Meanwhile, Mandalika SEZ is projected to welcome 1.6 million visitors, generating an estimated IDR 8.6 trillion in economic value.
Tanjung Lesung SEZ is targeting 1.5 million visitors and an economic contribution of IDR 3 trillion.
For Lido SEZ, the government is aiming for 220,000 visitors and IDR 352 billion in economic value. The zone is also expected to generate US$1.8 billion in foreign exchange earnings.
According to Airlangga, achieving Indonesia’s tourism targets will require stronger promotion efforts and improved connectivity.
For that reason, he called on the Ministry of Tourism to integrate SEZ promotion strategies at both the domestic and international levels, strengthen tourism human resources, and develop a well-coordinated calendar of tourism events.
The government is also seeking to improve connectivity through collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation, particularly in the development of airports and airline services.
25 Special Economic Zones
Indonesia currently has 25 Special Economic Zones spread across the country.
These comprise 13 industrial SEZs, six tourism SEZs, two healthcare SEZs, one digital SEZ, two technology and education SEZs, and one other services SEZ.
“We currently have 25 SEZs, with seven located in Java and 18 outside Java,” Airlangga said.
Since the SEZ program was launched, cumulative investment across all zones has reached IDR 382.1 trillion.
Between January and September 2026 alone, realized investment in SEZs totaled IDR 46 trillion, creating an additional 53,000 jobs.
Sources: Republika
Feat Image: Raditya//via Shutterstock
