On the paradise Indonesian island of Bali, popular among Ukrainians, crypto-repression begins. Tourists can now face serious consequences for using Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as a means of payment. According to information obtained by Beincrypto, the local government has decided to “crack down hard” on violators of the law, up to jail time.
The governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, spoke strongly about this problem in an interview with local media on May 28. He stated: “Foreign tourists who misbehave, do activities that are not permitted by their visa document, use cryptocurrency as a means of payment, and violate other provisions will be severely punished.” This statement is a clear signal that could have a serious negative impact on Bali’s tourism sector, which is heavily dependent on foreign tourism.
Indonesia has strict laws regarding the use of digital money for those using cryptocurrencies other than the Indonesian rupiah. “Harsh measures against tourists who use digital currency as a means of payment range from deportation, administrative sanctions, criminal penalties, closure of commercial premises, and other harsh sanctions,” the official explained.
It is known that before the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 6 million foreign tourists arrived in Bali in 2020, among whom there were many compatriots. Many of them used cryptocurrencies to pay for hotels, restaurants, tours, and shopping.
However, local authorities have now decided to ban cryptocurrency payments and take strict action against violators. Bagatia listed severe penalties for offenders, putting the use of digital assets in the same category as drugs.
The news has already spread on social networks. Some crypto-enthusiasts remained dissatisfied with the decision of the authorities, threatening that they would no longer come to rest and live in Bali.