DENPASAR, Eyewitnees – The Bali Provincial Government has urged Airbnb to comply with regulations in its role as a bridge between villa accommodations and tourism services for tourists.
Bali Governor Wayan Koster explained that promoting villas and tourism services in Bali must be done by referring to the appropriate licensing requirements of tourism companies and ensuring that accommodations comply with taxes.
“If they are not disciplined, I hope that villa and tourism service providers will be removed from Airbnb’s digital platform,” Koster explained, as quoted on Thursday (February 12, 2026).
Koster also invited Airbnb to collaborate with the Bali Provincial Government’s digital platform, “Love Bali,” to facilitate the payment of Foreign Tourist Levies (PWA), and other fees, for mutual benefit.
Koster stated that under his leadership as Governor of Bali, he is very open to anyone wanting to do business in Bali, but all must comply with government regulations and share responsibility for maintaining the quality of Bali’s tourism.
“If the quality of Bali’s tourism is solely the responsibility of the provincial government, regencies/cities, and the Balinese people, it’s unfair. If those who profit from tourism don’t do anything for Bali. If Bali doesn’t receive justice, nature will take its own course, ensuring fair governance in Bali,” said Koster.
Koster also stated that he will prosecute accommodations that fail to comply with taxes and complete permits, even though they have been operating in Bali for a long time.
He believes that firm action is essential for the sustainability of Bali’s tourism. The current pattern, including the proliferation of villas and houses used as tourist accommodations without paying taxes and without permits, is causing losses for Bali.
Meanwhile, we work hard at high costs to keep the environment clean and preserve our culture. Shanta Arul, Public Policy Lead for Airbnb SEA, explained their commitment to complying with all government regulations in Bali and encouraging tourism services to comply with taxes.
They are also ready to disseminate all regulations to the Bali Provincial Government, and we will convey these regulations to our partners.
“Airbnb takes this licensing process very seriously and we are ready to collaborate with the government,” he said.
