Indonesia’s tourism industry continues to show strong momentum in 2026, but global uncertainties are prompting the government and industry players to rethink how the sector moves forward.
In 2025, Indonesia welcomed 15.39 million international visitors, generating around US$18.27 billion in foreign exchange earnings and contributing Rp945.7 trillion, or 3.97 percent of the country’s GDP, according to government data. Tourism also supported more than 25.9 million jobs across the archipelago.
However, recent geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have started to affect airline routes and operational costs worldwide.
Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana said such developments could impact international travel flows to Indonesia, with authorities estimating a potential drop of 4,700 to 5,500 foreign visitors per day if the situation continues.
Against this backdrop, industry stakeholders from all over the world are planning a major event to discuss the sustainability of Indonesia’s tourism through Indonesia Tourism Xchange (ITX) 2026, a major tourism forum aimed at strengthening the country’s tourism ecosystem and future growth strategies.
A New Forum for Indonesia’s Tourism Industry
Organised by Horwath HTL, C9 Hotelworks, STR, QUO Global, Greenview, and Delivering Asia, the forum is held in partnership with Langham Hospitality Group, with support from major industry organisations including the Jakarta Hotels Association, PHRI Indonesia, and the Bali Hotels Association.
This first-ever Indonesia Tourism Xchange (ITX) 2026 will take place on 12 May at The Langham, Jakarta, bringing together hotel owners, investors, airline representatives, tourism executives, and policymakers from across the country and beyond.
For many participants, ITX 2026 represents a chance to step back and look at the bigger picture of Indonesia’s tourism development. The event aims to create a space where industry stakeholders can openly discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping Indonesia’s tourism landscape.
Understanding the Future of Tourism in Indonesia
Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse tourism destinations, with more than 17,000 islands, unique cultures, and a growing hospitality industry that continues to attract international investors.
At ITX 2026, discussions will focus on how the industry can grow responsibly while adapting to shifting travel trends.
The conference programme will explore topics such as tourism investment opportunities, hotel performance, technology innovation, sustainability, and the changing expectations of modern travelers.
One of the opening sessions will assess Indonesia’s tourism outlook for 2026, offering insights into economic trends and the opportunities emerging across the country’s many destinations.
Rethinking Luxury Travel in Indonesia
Luxury travel will also be a major theme at the event.
According to Sherona Shng, Regional Vice-President for Operations Asia at Langham Hospitality Group, today’s luxury travelers are looking for something deeper than traditional hotel experiences.
“Luxury travellers coming to Indonesia are not looking for replicas of global hotels,” Shng said. “They are seeking meaning, context, and a sense of place.”
In Indonesia, she explained, successful hospitality brands are increasingly focusing on authentic local experiences, cultural storytelling, and personalized service.
Investors Watching Indonesia Closely
Indonesia’s hotel market is also attracting growing interest from investors.
Matt Gebbie, Director for Pacific Asia at Horwath HTL, will present an overview of how hotels are performing across both urban and resort destinations.
He said Indonesia’s tourism opportunity is not simply about rapid expansion.
“Indonesia’s opportunity is not simply growth, it is smart growth,” Gebbie said, adding that investors must carefully evaluate which destinations and concepts will succeed in the years ahead.
The Rise of Branded Residences
Another trend gaining attention is the rapid development of branded residences, luxury residential properties connected to hotel brands.
Bill Barnett, Managing Director of C9 Hotelworks, believes these projects are becoming an important part of Indonesia’s tourism and real estate landscape.
“Branded residences are no longer a secondary product in Indonesia,” Barnett said. “They are becoming a primary driver of luxury real estate demand.”
He noted that Indonesia’s strong tourism appeal, combined with trusted global brands, creates a powerful draw for international buyers.
Sustainability and Technology Take Center Stage
As tourism continues to evolve, sustainability and digital innovation are becoming increasingly important.
At ITX 2026, industry leaders will discuss how tourism businesses can adopt eco-friendly practices while maintaining economic growth.
Technology will also play a major role, with conversations around artificial intelligence, digital marketing tools, and hospitality technology that help create more seamless travel experiences.
Strengthening Tourism Despite Global Uncertainty
While global conditions remain unpredictable, Indonesia is actively working to strengthen its tourism competitiveness.
The government is expanding promotional campaigns in short- and medium-haul markets such as Southeast Asia, East Asia, Australia, and India, where travel connectivity remains strong.
Domestic tourism is also being encouraged to keep visitor activity strong across local destinations.
Get Ready For ITX 2026?
For many industry leaders, ITX 2026 arrives at an important moment for Indonesia’s tourism sector.
With tourism playing such a vital role in the country’s economy and communities, conversations at ITX 2026 may help guide how Indonesia’s tourism industry develops in the years ahead.
Event Details & RSVP
Indonesia Tourism XChange (ITX 2026)
The Langham, JakartaKebayoran Baru, South Jakarta City
Tuesday, May 12 from 4 pm to 6 pm
Register here (Powered by Eventbrite)
