Jakarta. The Industry Ministry is keeping a close eye on the influx of thousands of iPhone 16 units, which are prohibited from sale in Indonesia due to local component issues. However, devices brought in for personal use by travelers, flight crews, or shipped through courier services are permitted entry.

“iPhone 16 units brought by passengers and subject to taxes are personal belongings that cannot be sold and are limited to the passenger's personal use,” said the ministry's spokesperson, Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, in an official statement on Saturday.

The Ministry estimates that approximately 9,000 units of the iPhone 16 entered Indonesia between August and October 2024 via personal baggage and have paid taxes. While these phones are legally in the country, they will be deemed illegal if sold.

Febri explained that the iPhone 16 falls under the category of postal and telecommunications goods that can enter Indonesia through the Directorate General of Customs and Excise. Each passenger is allowed to bring a maximum of two units.

Moreover, personal belongings and items sent through postal services for non-commercial use are not required to meet technical standards, including the local content (TKDN) obligation of 35-40 percent. The registration of the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) for personal items and those sent via post is handled by the Directorate General of Customs and Excise.

Previously, Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita stated that iPhone 16 units imported by registered importers cannot yet be sold domestically, as Apple has not fulfilled its investment commitments to obtain TKDN certification through the innovation scheme.