Indonesia Bans Sale and Use of iPhone 16 and Apple Watch 10 Series Over Investment Dispute

The Indonesian government has imposed a ban on the sale and use of Apple’s iPhone 16 series and Apple Watch 10 series within its territory due to unmet investment commitments by Apple. The American company had previously pledged to invest over $100 million for research and development centers in Indonesia but has reportedly invested only around $95 million to date.

As a result, the Indonesian Ministry of Industry has blocked the issuance of IMEI certificates for these Apple devices, preventing their official sale and usage in the country. However, foreign tourists and airline crew are permitted to bring and use up to two iPhone 16 devices for personal use, though resale of these devices within Indonesia is prohibited.

Indonesian regulations require foreign companies operating locally to meet a 40% local content standard, which often involves producing hardware or software domestically or establishing research and development centers.