IPhone 16 Series Illegal In Indonesia, Here's The Reason

JAKARTA Apple fans in Indonesia have been waiting for the iPhone 16 series since its release in September. Unfortunately, this device has not officially entered until it is called an illegal device.

On October 22, Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated that the iPhone 16 is not yet allowed to circulate in Indonesia. Whatever the type of cellphone, the iPhone 16 series is considered illegal and users are asked not to buy it from other countries.

"If there is an iPhone 16 that can operate in Indonesia, I can convey that it is illegal. Report it to us because we have not issued a permit," Agus said at the Ministry of Industry's Office, quoted from CNBC. "It must be illegal (the device), definitely. IMEI does not leave the Ministry of Industry."

However, this illegal claim does not apply to iPhone 16 users who buy their devices directly abroad because they have paid the Customs tax. However, if this device is purchased for sale, then its status changes to illegal.

His latest cellphone is claimed to be an illegal device because Apple has not completed its investment commitment in Indonesia. The company should have invested IDR 1.71 trillion, but Apple only paid IDR 1.48 trillion.

There is still Rp240 billion to be paid. Without paying off the agreed amount of investment, the Ministry of Industry cannot issue International IMEI certification. Therefore, the iPhone 16 is still illegal because IMEI is a legal requirement in Indonesia.

This prohibition does not only apply to the iPhone 16. Apple Watch Series 10 which was launched simultaneously with the cellphone is also not allowed to be traded in Indonesia until Apple meets the requirements of local content which is part of TDKN certification.