The long-discussed North Bali International Airport (NBIA) project has once again resurfaced in headlines — this time with reports of a USD 3 billion investment commitment from China. But while the developer PT BIBU Panji Sakti is optimistic and claims that groundbreaking will begin before the end of 2025, government officials have clarified that no location permit has been issued yet.
So what’s really happening? Here’s a breakdown of what we know so far — and what it means for expats, property investors, and real estate agencies in Bali.
PT BIBU Claims: Investment Secured, Groundbreaking Imminent
According to PT BIBU’s President Director, Erwanto Sad Adiatmoko Hariwibowo, the company has:
- Signed an MoU with investors from China, Qatar, and Japan
- Secured a USD 3 billion commitment from China alone
- Planned a groundbreaking ceremony before the end of 2025
The agreement with China was reportedly formalized during President Prabowo Subianto’s November 2024 visit to Beijing, with the signing taking place at the Indonesian Embassy in China.
PT BIBU also insists that feasibility studies and environmental assessments are complete, and that the airport will be developed in Kubutambahan, Buleleng Regency, on a 900-hectare reclaimed area off Bali’s north coast.
Government Response: “No Location Permit Issued Yet”
In contrast to the developer’s claims, Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation and Bali’s Provincial Government have stated that:
- No official location permit (Izin Penetapan Lokasi/IPL) has been granted
- The project is still under evaluation and administrative review
- Any claims of imminent groundbreaking are premature
This discrepancy has led many observers to view the latest update as preliminary, if not speculative — especially given Bali’s history of infrastructure proposals that stall due to environmental, political, or legal complications.
Why This Matters for Expats & Real Estate Investors
Even without formal approval, the buzz around NBIA is already:
- Influencing land prices in North Bali (especially Lovina, Tejakula, and Kubutambahan)
- Raising questions among real estate buyers about long-term ROI
- Shaping the marketing strategies of property agents who are hoping to capitalize on early-stage interest
For those looking to invest, it’s important to:
- Verify land zoning and building permits
- Avoid speculative buys based purely on “future airport” hype
- Monitor official updates from Bappenas (National Development Agency) and Bali Provincial Government
The Bigger Picture: A Vision or a Political Tool?
The North Bali Airport idea has been around since the early 2010s and has resurfaced every election cycle. With Bali’s south facing over-tourism, many agree on the need for balanced development, but execution remains the challenge.
With new leadership in place under President Prabowo, the project may gain traction. But until formal permits, funding transfers, and land clearing begin — caution is key.
