Indonesia’s government is optimistic about lifting the sales ban on the iPhone 16 Series after ongoing discussions with Apple. This comes after the country’s Ministry of Industry emphasized compliance with local manufacturing requirements for smartphones and tablets.

Investment Minister Rosan Roeslani, in an interview with Bloomberg Television, expressed confidence that the issue will be resolved shortly. "I strongly believe it will resolve very, very soon," Roeslani stated. "Hopefully, within one or two weeks, this issue can be resolved."

The sales ban was enforced last October when Apple failed to meet the domestic manufacturing criteria set by Indonesia’s government. As a result, Apple’s efforts to launch the iPhone 16 Series in the country were put on hold. However, ongoing talks are aimed at meeting these requirements, specifically concerning the local content requirement (TKDN).

Apple’s investment offer in January 2025 was also rejected, despite proposing nearly $1 billion to establish a plant for manufacturing AirTags in Indonesia. The country’s Ministry of Industry believes Apple needs to adjust its local manufacturing practices to meet the minimum TKDN percentage, which is critical for the iPhone 16's approval.

Roeslani indicated that Apple’s revised approach has led to promising developments. “Now they find a solution on that one, so hopefully they accept the discrepancies so we can have the iPhone 16 sold in Indonesia," he said.

In related news, Apple recently proposed an investment package worth $100 million, aiming to produce more components locally. However, the government is pushing for even larger investments to meet the required targets for local manufacturing. This would include the construction of a factory in Batam to produce components for devices like AirTags.

The government is expected to continue its discussions with Apple to finalize the necessary agreements and lift the restrictions. Minister Roeslani remains hopeful, stating that a resolution is imminent.

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