iPhone 16 series banned in Indonesia, know why
by Sunita · KalingaTVThe Indonesian government has imposed a ban on the use and sale of iPhone 16 series and Apple Watch 10 series devices in the country. This ban order came after the company failed to meet the promised investment commitments in the country. Previously, the Cupertino based tech giant has pledged to invest upwards of IDR 1.71 trillion ($109 million) in local R&D facilities.
According to reports, Apple has invested IDR 1.48 trillion ($95 million) in the country so far. So, the Indonesian Ministry of Industry had to take this step and block the issue of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) certification for the iPhone 16 and Apple Watch Series 10 devices.
Moreover, the news reports said that the government allows tourists and airline crew members to bring and use up to two iPhone 16 series devices in Indonesia. However, it will be considered illegal if they sell those devices locally as that will violet the recent restrictions on the phone.
It is note worthy to mention that it is mandatory for foreign companies need to invest 40% local content to operate in the country as part of the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification, according to the Indonesian law. The local government has three options for companies – manufacture products locally, develop software locally or set up R&D centers.