Indonesia has officially imposed a ban on the iPhone 16

Indonesia has officially prohibited the sale and use of Apple’s iPhone 16, along with other recent Apple releases such as the Apple Watch Series 10, due to Apple’s failure to meet its investment commitments in the country, as reported by *The Economic Times* and *9to5Mac*. This ban, announced earlier in the week, applies not only to future sales but also extends to devices already in circulation, impacting both local users and tourists.

Background of the Ban

According to *The Economic Times*, the ban is linked to Apple falling short on a promised $109 million (1.71 trillion rupiah) investment in Indonesia. The country mandates foreign companies to meet a 40% local content requirement, and Apple had committed to opening research and development facilities, or "Apple academies," to fulfill this. However, Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry reported that Apple has only invested $95 million (1.48 trillion rupiah), leaving a $14 million gap in its commitment.

Due to this shortfall, the Ministry of Industry has withheld the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) certifications essential for legal device operation in Indonesia. Without this certification, the iPhone 16 and similar devices are considered unauthorized. Industry Minister Gumiwang Kartasasmita has urged the public to report any iPhone 16 units found in operation in the country.

Apple’s Position and Market Implications

Apple has not yet made a public statement regarding the ban. However, resolving this issue is critical, as Indonesia represents a key consumer market in Southeast Asia. The tech industry is watching closely to see how Apple addresses the ban, as it highlights the challenges of navigating regulatory compliance while maintaining access to valuable markets.