In a surprising move that’s caused a stir in the tech and travel communities, the Indonesian government has officially banned the sale and use of Apple’s newly released iPhone 16 and its other recent gadgets, including the Apple Watch Series 10.
Why the ban?
It all boils down to an investment dispute between Apple and Indonesia – and it could have implications for travelers heading to the island nation with the latest tech in their pockets.
What’s Behind the Ban?
Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry recently announced that Apple has failed to meet its local investment commitments, a requirement for operating in the country.
Specifically, Apple had promised to invest around IDR1.71 trillion (about USD109 million) in infrastructure development and local sourcing initiatives, but the tech giant has reportedly fallen short, with an investment total of approximately IDR1.48 trillion (USD95 million) so far.
This shortfall has frustrated Indonesian officials, leading to the suspension of the necessary IMEI certifications for iPhone 16 devices, effectively blocking the product from legal sale.
Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita made it clear:
"Any iPhone 16 devices found on the market in Indonesia will be considered illegal!"
Kartasasmita urged Indonesian citizens to report any suspected sales and warned retailers against attempting to import or sell the devices without authorization.
What If You Bring an iPhone 16 to Indonesia?
Visitors to Indonesia are allowed to bring up to two iPhone 16 units with them. Image via Unsplash
Good news for travelers – Indonesia isn’t confiscating iPhone 16 models at the border.
While the devices can’t be sold within the country, visitors are allowed to bring up to two iPhone 16 units with them, provided these are for personal use only.
Be prepared to pay import duties upon entry, and remember that reselling these devices locally could land you in trouble.
Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry has emphasized that these devices should remain strictly personal items for travelers, not for sale or distribution within the country.
The Bigger Picture
Indonesia’s stance is a clear message to Apple: honor your promises, or face the consequences.
The Indonesian government has strict regulations requiring foreign companies to meet a 40% local content quota.
Apple’s initial plan to set up an R&D facility, dubbed the 'Apple Academy,' was part of its commitment to contribute to Indonesia’s economy and meet local content requirements.
However, with the company’s investment falling short, those ambitious plans have been delayed.
For Apple, the stakes are high.
Indonesia, with a population of over 270 million people, is a lucrative market with vast growth potential.
Losing ground here could have significant implications for Apple’s expansion in Southeast Asia, where tech competition is fierce.
So far, Apple has not indicated any clear plan to bridge the investment gap or address Indonesia’s concerns.
What’s Next?
As it stands, iPhone enthusiasts in Indonesia will need to wait until Apple can meet its obligations or negotiate a compromise with the government.
For travelers, however, the good news is that you’re still free to bring your iPhone 16 into the country – just don’t expect to buy one there anytime soon.
So, next time you’re packing your bags for Bali or Jakarta, double-check your gadgets and keep up with the latest travel regulations.
Who knows? That shiny new iPhone 16 could be your ticket to international tech gossip.
When was the last time your tech got you in trouble abroad? Follow our WeChat official account, ThatsGBA, for more travel tips and updates.
[Cover image via That's]
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