Jakarta – The vibrant cityscape, courtesy of Tom Fisk/Pexels.
As a result, the iPhone is not available for purchase in Indonesia due to a government-imposed ban following Apple’s lack of investment in the country.
On June 15, Apple faced the daunting prospect of a nationwide sales ban in Indonesia if it failed to obtain a content moderation requirements certification by the deadline. Several weeks later, the ban had turned into a reality.
According to Indonesian Business Ministry spokesperson Febri Hendri Antoni Arief, “Apple Indonesia failed to meet its financial commitment for obtaining local content certification, effectively prohibiting the marketing of imported iPhone 16 devices within the country.”
In accordance with Indonesia’s regulations, certain smartphones sold within the country are required to contain a minimum of 40% local components, also referred to as the Domestic Component Level.
This goal can be attained via direct production of components, but it will equally be accomplished through various approaches. This comprises manufacturing schemes, app enhancements, and an innovation enhancement scheme.
To meet the requirements for TKDN certification thus far, Apple has leveraged the innovation enhancement program, specifically focusing on establishing Apple Academies as a means of driving growth and development. As of October 11, a total of approximately $94.5 million had been committed to the project, which was part of Apple’s initial dedication of around $109.6 million.
The government has imposed a blanket ban on overseas purchases, effectively prohibiting consumers from making any international transactions within the country. Notwithstanding this, they could potentially take their business abroad to acquire the item for personal use, subsequently remitting the requisite taxes upon its re-entry into the country.
