Announced by Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, the ban applies to any iPhone 16 operating in the country, deeming it ‘illegal’ until Apple meets certain local investment requirements.
The reason behind the ban
Apple’s restricted release of the iPhone 16 in Indonesia stems from a missed investment target with the Indonesian Government. Although Apple has invested roughly 1.48 trillion rupiah ($95 million) of a pledged 1.71 trillion rupiah ($110 million), the company still needs to fulfil an additional 230 billion rupiah ($14.75 million) to meet local content requirements known as TKDN (Domestic Component Level). This mandate requires products sold in Indonesia to contain at least 40% local content, including components, labour, and facilities.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry has withheld certification for the iPhone 16 pending Apple’s investment completion. Without the necessary IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) certification, any iPhone 16 found operating in Indonesia is regarded as unlicensed. This ban will impact travellers who might plan to travel with their iPhone 16.
The announcement comes after Apple CEO Tim Cook’s visit to Jakarta in April, where he explored potential manufacturing opportunities with President Joko Widodo. Cook mentioned that the company would ‘consider’ establishing manufacturing facilities in Indonesia. Despite the global release of the iPhone 16 on September 20, along with the iPhone 16 Pro lineup and Apple Watch Series 10, these products are still unavailable in Indonesia. According to Industry Ministry spokesperson Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, the TKDN certification application for the iPhone 16 is under review but depends on Apple fulfilling its investment commitments.
What travellers need to know
This limitation might cause discomfort to the newest iPhone models, particularly those who are used to smooth connectivity and app-based services. Take into account these options to make sure you stay connected if you’re travelling to Indonesia and primarily use Apple products for work, communication, and navigation.
Bring a secondary phone: Until the restriction lifts, consider bringing a compatible iPhone model with a valid IMEI or a secondary device that will work on Indonesian networks.
Use local options for connectivity: Indonesia offers a wide range of smartphones and portable Wi-Fi devices, easily available at airports and popular tourist spots.
Stay updated on the ban: For those hoping to use an iPhone 16 in Indonesia soon, keep an eye on updates, as Apple may meet its local investment requirements, potentially enabling the iPhone 16 for use within the country.
