Indonesia has officially banned the sale and use of the iPhone 16 series.
According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry, Apple’s delayed contributions to local infrastructure and sourcing have prevented the tech giant from meeting essential regulatory requirements.
Indonesia’s Industry Minister, Gumiwang Kartasasmita, emphasized the ban: “If there is an iPhone 16 that can operate in Indonesia, that means it is illegal. Do report it to us.” The warning underscores the government’s intent to ensure compliance from foreign tech firms operating in the country.
Apple initially committed to a $109 million (1.7 trillion rupiah) investment in Indonesia to boost infrastructure and support local sourcing initiatives. However, the Indonesian government reports that Apple has invested only 1.48 trillion rupiah ($95 million) to date, leaving a shortfall of 230 billion rupiah ($14.75 million). This shortfall has effectively blocked Apple from obtaining the crucial International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) certification, a mandatory requirement for legally selling devices in Indonesia.
Minister Kartasasmita explained, “We, the Ministry of Industry, are yet to issue permits for the iPhone 16 because there are still commitments that Apple must realize.”
Reports also indicate that Indonesia’s ban extends beyond the iPhone 16 to include the newly launched Watch Series 10, which debuted alongside Apple’s latest smartphone. Both devices currently lack approval for legal sale within Indonesian borders.