Apple Moves Closer to Ending Indonesia iPhone Sales Ban

Apple is a step closer to resuming iPhone sales in Indonesia, as the country’s Industry Ministry confirmed the approval of local content requirement (TKDN) certificates for 20 Apple products, including the iPhone 16 series.

The approval follows Apple’s agreement last month to invest $150 million in Indonesia after months of deadlock over the country’s 40% local content rule for smartphones. Apple will establish two facilities—one in Bandung for accessories production and another in Batam for AirTags manufacturing. Additionally, the company has committed to developing a semiconductor research and development (R&D) center, a first of its kind in Asia.

Despite receiving the TKDN certificates, Apple still needs further approvals from multiple ministries before officially resuming iPhone sales in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.

Previously, Indonesia rejected Apple’s $100 million investment proposal, citing fairness concerns. The nation has also banned the sale of Google Pixel smartphones due to non-compliance with its local content regulations.

With Apple’s increased investment, the tech giant aims to secure a strong foothold in the Indonesian market while aligning with local manufacturing policies.

Source: The Economic Times