Previously, we shared how Apple’s latest flagship smartphone series, the iPhone 16 Series, is currently banned from being sold in Indonesia until the tech giant fulfils a few requirements, including investing in the country and renewing its local content requirement certification, known as TKDN.
Well, the ban is still in place today, and recently, the nation’s Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita even stressed that it’s illegal to use the iPhone 16 Series in Indonesia, even if they’re bought overseas.
Indonesia’s Industry Minister says it’s illegal to use the iPhone 16 Series in the country, even if they’re bought overseas
Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita (middle)
According to the Indonesian publication Kompas, Agus, when asked by reporters about the iPhone 16 Series ban in the country, asserted that any of the new Apple smartphone series spotted being used or sold within Indonesia are illegal.
He was quoted as saying,
“If iPhone 16 Series smartphones are brought into Indonesia and are operational, I can confirm they’re illegal. We have yet to authorise their distribution.”
Agus added that his Ministry has yet to allow for iPhone 16 Series’ distribution in the country because Apple has yet to realise the necessary requirements and commitments.
Furthermore, in a report by the Indonesian portal Detik, Agus was also quoted as urging Indonesians to report anyone who they see using or selling the iPhone 16 Series in the country.
Indonesia’s Industry Ministry clarifies why the iPhone 16 Series could be illegal even if those who import it paid the relevant tax to Customs
Detik further sought clarification about the matter with a spokesperson of the Indonesian Industry Ministry, as regulations in the country allow for imported smartphones to be used within the country should the individual who imported them declare the device with Indonesian Customs at the airport and pay for the relevant import tax.
The spokesperson clarified that while it is indeed legal under Regulation 35 PP 46 2021, an individual can only register up to 2 units of iPhone 16 Series, and they must be for own use.
Should people import the iPhone 16 Series smartphones and sell them, they become illegal.
For illustration purposes
So, what do you guys think of the iPhone 16 Series ban in Indonesia? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Also read: SG Man Offers RM32k Reward to Anyone Who Can Return Wife’s Lost iPhone, RM16k For Anyone with Info
