Indonesia has granted telecommunications permits for five different models of Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16, marking a significant step toward allowing the devices to be sold in the country after facing regulatory hurdles.
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology confirmed the approval on Friday, a week after the issuance of local content certificates for 20 Apple products, including the iPhone 16 lineup. However, Apple must still obtain an import permit from the trade ministry before sales can commence, according to the industry ministry.
Regulatory Hurdles and Local Content Rules
Indonesia, a market of 280 million people, imposed a ban on iPhone 16 sales last year, citing Apple’s failure to comply with local content requirements. These regulations mandate a certain percentage of locally produced components in imported electronic devices—a policy aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign products.
The five approved models include the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, signaling Apple’s ongoing efforts to navigate Indonesia’s regulatory landscape.
Analysts have warned that such strict requirements could discourage foreign investment and raise concerns about protectionist policies in the country.
Apple’s $300 Million Investment in Indonesia
The permit approval comes on the heels of Apple’s $300 million investment announcement last month. The tech giant pledged to invest in component manufacturing plants and a research and development center in Indonesia—moves likely aimed at strengthening its position in the market and complying with local regulations.
While Apple has not issued an official statement regarding the permit approvals, Dwi Handoko, a senior official at the communications ministry, confirmed that the five certificates were issued at Apple’s request.
What’s Next for Apple in Indonesia?
Despite these approvals, Apple still requires an import permit from the trade ministry before it can officially launch the iPhone 16 series in Indonesia. Given the company’s recent investment commitments, industry observers anticipate that the trade ministry may grant the necessary permissions soon.
Indonesia remains a key market for smartphone manufacturers, and Apple’s continued efforts to align with local regulations suggest a strong commitment to expanding its presence in Southeast Asia.
