The Most Popular Businesses in Bali

Bali, with its beautiful nature and culture, has long been a dream destination for travelers from around the globe. As many visitors fall in love with the island, it's no surprise that more and more entrepreneurs and investors are drawn to the idea of establishing a business in Bali. If you’re considering setting up your own venture on the island, you may be wondering what types of businesses work in the Bali business landscape. In this article, we will explore the most common businesses opened by foreign investors, based on a sample of the 604 PT PMAs (foreign-owned limited liability companies) that our team here at Bali Solve helped establish in the last few years.

1. Real Estate:

With Bali's growing tourism industry and the high ROI on rentals, real estate has emerged as a thriving sector for investors. Buying, selling and renting villas and other types of accommodation has become a popular business model, driven by the high demand for quality properties. However, with the increasing development across Canggu and Uluwatu, building, buying or renovating your property so that it stands out from the plethora of newly developed properties is essential for success.  

2. Food and Beverage: 

Bali's culinary scene has experienced significant growth, with endless restaurants and cafes opening across the island. These establishments cater to the diverse tastes of locals and tourists, serving both traditional Indonesian and international cuisine. The food and beverage industry is alive and well in Bali, but again, market research and having a unique offering is really crucial if you’re looking to stand the test of time. 

3. Wellness:

Bali is known as a place to rest, find peace and feel your best. As such, wellness-related businesses such as gyms, spas, yoga centers and retreats are popular amongst Bali’s residents and tourists. The lush nature and spiritual side of the island make Bali an ideal choice when exploring wellness related businesses. 

4. Consulting Services: 

Bali’s economy is steadily growing and foreign investments keep pouring in. As such, the demand for consulting services, particularly in marketing and business development, has risen. Since doing business in a foreign country comes with its unique challenges and opportunities, knowing how to operate here requires support and guidance. If you already have extensive knowledge of the business landscape in Bali, helping others succeed by offering consulting services may be a great avenue to explore. 

5. Retail: 

With the influx of tourists, expats and domestic visitors alongside residents, retail businesses have a steady stream of customers. Many boutique clothing stores, artisanal crafts, health food and souvenir shops have found success on the island, creating a vibrant shopping scene. 

6. Events: 

Following the pandemic, Bali’s event industry has truly bounced back, with retreats, wellness gatherings, concerts and corporate meetings being held here. The island is full of incredible venues and well-developed infrastructure, making it a smart choice for event organizers wishing to draw an international crowd. 

If you’re looking to set up a PT PMA, there are ample opportunities to explore across various sectors. We highly recommend doing thorough market research and speaking with experts before parting with your hard-earned cash. If you need professional advice or wish to know more about setting up a PT PMA, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us or check out our guide to setting up a PT PMA here.