Bali Considers Ban on Short-Term Rentals to Address Overtourism and Revenue Loss

Bali's governor is proposing a ban on short-term rental platforms like Airbnb. The move aims to control overtourism and recover lost tax revenue from unregistered accommodations. Governor I Wayan Koster told state media that rentals have surged in recent years. This growth has coincided with a record boom in foreign visitors. He stated that many villas and guest houses operate without official registration. This prevents the local government from collecting taxes needed for public services. The potential ban represents Bali's latest effort to manage its tourism industry. The island has struggled with the environmental and infrastructural pressures of high visitor numbers.