Heaptalk, Jakarta — The Indonesian Ministry of Trade has recently warned e-commerce platforms against selling the new iPhone 16 series without government authorization. The Ministry emphasized that enforcement measures will be applied to any platform offering the smartphone in defiance of regulatory approval.
“E-commerce platforms are regularly evaluated. If any are discovered selling the iPhone 16 series without authorization, we will initiate action,” Trade Minister Budi Santoso said.
This response aligned with the government’s ongoing review of the device’s eligibility under the Domestic Content Requirement (TKDN) regulations, which mandate a minimum level of local components for electronics sold in the archipelago. For this reason, the Ministry of Trade will deploy investigative teams should violations arise.
“If necessary, we will dispatch teams to ensure compliance,” Trade Minister Santoso
Apple’s iPhone 16 remains prohibited from sale in Indonesia as it has not met the necessary TKDN criteria. Although several units have reportedly entered the country through travelers, airline staff, or private shipments, these items are limited to personal use only and are strictly forbidden from being resold.
The Ministry of Industry’s representative, Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, confirmed that iPhones brought by individuals as part of their baggage are subject to customs duties and are intended solely for the owner’s private use.
“Apple’s iPhone 16 units imported by passengers are considered personal items, subject to tax, and are for resale,” Febri affirmed.
Apple has reportedly sought dialogue with the Ministry of Industry regarding the restrictions. In a letter addressed to Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, Apple expressed interest in discussions to address the regulatory issues surrounding the iPhone 16’s sale in Indonesia.
