27-10-2024 (JAKARTA) Indonesia’s Industry Ministry has issued a clarification regarding the iPhone 16, confirming that while personal imports are permitted, commercial sales remain prohibited due to Apple’s unfulfilled local investment commitments.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, announced that individuals may bring up to two iPhone 16 devices into the country for personal use, subject to appropriate taxation. “These units must remain personal belongings and cannot be resold within Indonesian territory,” Arif emphasised in an official statement.
Data reveals approximately 9,000 iPhone 16 units have already entered Indonesia as personal imports between August and October, with all applicable taxes paid. The ministry has also confirmed that devices entering through postal services for non-commercial purposes are permitted, as these channels fall outside the scope of local investment requirements.
Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita disclosed that Apple has invested 1.48 trillion rupiah (£75.7 million) in Indonesia, falling short of the required 1.71 trillion rupiah threshold necessary for obtaining commercial sales licences. This investment gap continues to prevent the tech giant from officially launching its latest flagship device in Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
“The regulatory framework is designed to ensure meaningful economic participation from global technology companies operating in our market,” explained Dr Suharto Rahman, an economics professor at the University of Indonesia. “This policy balances consumer access with national economic interests.”
Apple has expressed its commitment to the Indonesian market, stating it is “deeply committed to Indonesia” and eager to launch its latest products, including the iPhone 16 line-up, as soon as possible.
