As you may recall, we mentioned in previous weeks that iPhone 16 sales were banned across Indonesia for failing to comply with various economic regulations. While the dispute between Apple and the Indonesian government was expected to be resolved quickly, the situation has escalated. The government is now urging people to report iPhone 16 users to legal authorities.

Using an iPhone 16 has become a serious crime!

The Indonesian government continues to take a hard stance on the new generation of Apple devices due to an investment dispute with the company. Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, the country’s Minister of Industry, has declared the sale and use of iPhone 16 illegal nationwide.

The Indonesian government continues to take a hard stance on the new generation of Apple devices due to an investment dispute with the company. Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, the country’s Minister of Industry, has declared the sale and use of iPhone 16 illegal nationwide.

Minister Kartasasmita stated, “If any iPhone 16 devices are found operating in Indonesia, I can confirm that it is illegal. Report these devices to us”. This ruling not only applies to the iPhone 16 but also covers the 16 Pro series and new Apple products like the Apple Watch Series 10. The minister added that, in addition to economic sanctions, the process could even result in prison sentences.

Despite Apple CEO Tim Cook’s visit to Jakarta last April, where he met with President Joko Widodo and discussed the possibility of establishing production facilities, the lack of concrete steps seems to have heightened tensions.

Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry, explained that the TKDN certification application for the iPhone is still under review but will only proceed if Apple fulfills its investment commitments.

We will see where this situation leads in the coming days. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the matter in the comments.