Apple’s recently launched iPhone 16 series may be making waves across the world including India, but this device is banned in Indonesia. The Indonesian government has banned the sale of iPhone 16 due to non-compliance with local investment rules.
Apple’s offer of $100 million is also insufficient
To remove this ban, Apple had proposed an investment of 100 million dollars (about Rs 845 crore) to the Indonesian government. But the government rejected it. The Indonesian government says they want Apple to invest appropriately in their country and make the investment ratio more similar to other countries like Vietnam.
What are the allegations?
Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita said Apple has invested billions of dollars in its manufacturing facilities in Vietnam, but their investment in emerging markets like Indonesia is still limited. He said, “We want Apple to do business in Indonesia, but to do so in a fair and transparent manner.”
Government asked for solution
The government has demanded further talks from Apple in this matter and finding a suitable solution. Agus Kartasasmita also clarified that Apple has to rethink its strategy considering the importance of the Indonesian market.
Impact of the ban and the way forward
This ban on iPhone 16 can prove to be a big blow for Apple, because Indonesia is a rapidly growing smartphone market in Asia. To lift the ban, Apple will have to meet the Indonesian government’s conditions, which include demands such as local investment and setting up manufacturing facilities.
Now it remains to be seen how Apple solves this challenge and whether iPhone 16 will be able to make its place in the Indonesian market.