"

Alcohol Cost in Indonesia: Trends and Variations

" "

Alcohol prices in Indonesia can vary greatly depending on the type of beverage, location, and where it is purchased. This article explores the cost of common alcoholic drinks in the country, highlighting trends and regional differences.

" "

Overview of Alcoholic Drinks Prices in Indonesia

" "

The cost of alcoholic drinks in Indonesia can be broken down into different categories and regions. A local beer can be as cheap as 20000 IDR (about 1.4 USD) in some stores, while in upscale bars or restaurants, the same volume can cost significantly more. For imports like Heineken and Guinness, the price can be twice as high, making budget options for beer quite limited.

" "

Prices of Specific Drinks

" "

Here's a detailed look at how much you can expect to pay for various alcoholic drinks in Indonesia:

" "

Local Beer

" "

The price of a 320ml bottle of local beer in a grocery store in Jakarta or Bali is approximately 20000 IDR (about 1.4 USD). This is an increase from the previous 11000 IDR (about 0.7 USD). In beachside or upscale venues, the cost might range from 25000 IDR to 45000 IDR (about 1.7 USD to 3 USD). Cans are more expensive than bottles, and keg draughts are not typically cheaper than bottles. Imports like Heineken and Guinness are about twice the price of local beer.

" "

Spirits

" "

Spirits and wine are not sold in grocery stores as they require specific licenses. The cheapest local vodka or whisky in Bali is about 65000 IDR (about 4.5 USD) for 350ml, or 90000 IDR (about 6 USD) for 500ml. A high-quality vodka in Bali, 9x distilled, can cost 180000 IDR (about 12 USD) for 700ml. Imports are usually at least twice the price as they are sold in countries of origin.

" "

Local Spirits: Arak

" "

The cheapest form of local spirits is Arak, which can be found in some traditional villages. It is not taxed and is much like saki in Japan, with varying levels of quality and potency. The premium quality Arak can cost about 30000 IDR (about 2.1 USD) for 600ml, which is comparable in price to a local beer but with a much higher alcohol content.

" "

Alcohol Inflation in Indonesia

" "

Over the past five years, alcohol prices in Indonesia have seen a notable increase. A local beer that previously cost 11000 IDR (about 0.7 USD) now costs 20000 IDR (about 1.4 USD). In restaurant and bars, prices can be even higher, ranging from 25000 IDR to 45000 IDR (about 1.7 USD to 3 USD) for a 320ml bottle. Imports are particularly expensive, often twice the price of what they sell for in their country of origin.

" "

Regional Variations

" "

There are significant regional differences in alcohol prices. In Bali, spirits and wine tend to be cheaper due to the presence of local distilleries. For example, the cheapest local vodka in Bali starts at 65000 IDR (about 4.5 USD) for 350ml, while a high-quality vodka can cost 180000 IDR (about 12 USD) for 700ml. In contrast, wine in Bali is about 125000 IDR (about 8.5 USD) for 750ml, while in Jakarta, it is about 350000 IDR (about 24 USD) for the same volume. Wine is substantially more expensive in Jakarta.

" "

Wine Prices in Indonesia

" "

Wine prices in Indonesia are particularly high. A well-known semi-local wine in Bali, 'Hatten,' starts at about 125000 IDR (about 8.5 USD) for their cheapest 750ml bottle. This is considerably higher than the price in Canada, where a comparable bottle of wine can cost around 12.50 USD. The cost of wine in Indonesia is even higher than the tax-exempt price in countries with high alcohol taxes, such as Canada. A popular brand in Canada, Yellow Tail, costs about 12.50 USD in Canada, whereas in Indonesia, the same brand is about 350000 IDR (about 24 USD).

" "

The reason for the high prices in Indonesia is likely the low demand for wine, which leads to higher stocking and shelf costs for stores. As a result, wine is often sold in specialty stores or direct from the vineyards, making it expensive. Indonesia is still in the early stages of wine appreciation and understanding, which impacts the overall market pricing.

" "

Conclusion

" "

The cost of alcoholic drinks in Indonesia varies widely depending on the type of drink, location, and where it is purchased. Imports and non-grocery store products are particularly expensive, while local spirits and wines have unique pricing dynamics. Understanding these variations can help travelers and locals make informed decisions about their alcohol budget in the country.