Gili Island Economy

The economy of the Gili Islands is based solely on tourism and small scale fishing. A few years ago, sailors occupied Gili and establish coconuts plantation and expand the fishing activities.

As visitors started to visit Lombok and some came to the Gilis on day trips and then began to stay for longer periods in local homes. The islands have now become a major tourist destination, especially for diving. Their popularity puts pressure on the island environment, especially the supply of fresh water. There is always pressure to build more and better facilities. Big business interests are trying to cash in on the popularity of the Gilis and the local government is keen to promote upmarket tourist development. Gili Air and Gili Meno retained much of their unspoiled quality, but Gili Trawangan has become more touristy and pricey.

The islands rely on tourism and small scale fishing for most of their revenue, though coconut plantations provide a little income too. However, as the islands become more built up, tourism is fast becoming the main economic engine for the islands.

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