The Indonesian government has effectively banned its sale and use iPhone 16 series And Apple Watch 10 series devices in the country. The ban is a direct result of Apple’s unfulfilled investment commitments in the country, as Cupertino had previously pledged to invest over IDR 1.71 trillion ($109 million) in local R&D facilities.
If there is an iPhone 16 that can work in Indonesia, it means I can say the device is illegal. Report it to us.” – Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, Minister of Industry of Indonesia
According to the latest figures, Apple has invested IDR 1.48 trillion ($95 million) so far, forcing Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry to issue International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) certification for the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch Series 10 block devices.
State news agency Between clarified that tourists and airline crew members are allowed to bring and use up to two iPhone 16 series devices in Indonesia, but are not allowed to sell these devices locally as that would violate the restrictions.
Indonesian law requires foreign companies to provide 40% local content to operate in the country as part of the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification. The local government has three options for companies: produce products locally, develop software locally or set up R&D centers.