17-4-2024 (JAKARTA) In a move that could potentially reshape the tech giant’s manufacturing footprint, Apple Inc is exploring the feasibility of establishing a production facility in Indonesia. This revelation came directly from the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Tim Cook, following his meeting with President Joko Widodo on Wednesday.
Cook’s visit to the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, on Tuesday marked the latest stop on his regional tour, which also included a stop in Vietnam. While in Indonesia, the Apple CEO has a significant engagement scheduled – the inauguration of an Apple Developer Academy on the idyllic island of Bali.
During the press conference following his meeting with the president, widely known as Jokowi, Cook addressed the discussions surrounding potential manufacturing investments in the country. “We talked about the president’s desire to see manufacturing in the country, and it is something that we will look at,” Cook stated, signaling Apple’s willingness to explore the possibility of establishing a production base in Indonesia.
Apple’s manufacturing operations have traditionally been concentrated in Vietnam, where the company has built a substantial presence for the production of its popular devices, including iPads, AirPods, and Apple Watches. Additionally, suppliers for MacBooks have also been actively investing in the Southeast Asian nation.
While Apple has yet to establish any manufacturing facilities in Indonesia, the tech giant has demonstrated its commitment to the market by setting up four Apple Developer Academies within the country. These academies play a crucial role in nurturing local talent and fostering innovation within the tech ecosystem.
Indonesia’s vast population, coupled with its tech-savvy demographic, has positioned the Southeast Asian nation as a prime target for tech-related investments.
