iPhone Banned: The Apple iPhone 16 has been banned by Indonesia and is both illegal to buy and use. This decision has become a topic of debate both in the technology sector and among consumers. This ban has been implemented after Apple made a commitment to invest in Indonesia, which was not fulfilled. Local content certification is not provided for this.
What is the issue?
Apple said in 2024 that the company will invest approximately $109 million to support local content and infrastructure. The investment was made by Apple as part of its commitment to achieve domestic component level certification. However, Apple has invested only $95 million so far. The company is yet to invest $14.75 million.
Banned has been announced
In Indonesia, Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Curtasasmita announced on October 25 that anyone using the iPhone 16 would be considered illegal. He also said not to buy this iPhone even from abroad. Inform immediately if someone uses it. This ban applies to all iPhone 16 models and the Apple Watch Series 10 as well.
Ben on iPhone 16: Know what’s the cause and what could be the effect?
Certification Issue
The domestic component level certification process is directly tied to Apple’s commitment. Apple has committed to creating research and development facilities that will be known as Apple Academies. Without this certificate, Apple cannot sell its products in Indonesia. The Indonesian ministry said Apple’s certification process is under review, but the process will not move forward until Apple fulfills its investment commitments.
Damage to both the user and Apple
This ban is harmful to both Indonesian consumers and Apple. Customers can no longer buy and use the iPhone 16 legally in their country. Tourism is also likely to be affected due to this ban. This is detrimental to Apple as it now has to meet local content requirements. Along with this, there may be a challenge to fulfill the commitments to survive in the foreign market.
A statement from Apple
Despite the ban, Apple said it would honor its commitment to Indonesia. In April 2024, Tim Cook visited Jakarta and held discussions with President Joko Widodo. He talked about setting up a local manufacturer unit.
Challenges for the International Company
From Indonesia Ben, every international company has realized that in order to do business in another country, it is necessary to invest in that country. Apple has announced that it will complete the commitment, but it is not yet known when the ban will be removed.
