The Indonesian authorities have announced that they anticipate the iPhone 16 ban will be lifted “within one or two weeks,” though they have not clarified the reasons behind this expectation.
The investment minister made a somewhat oddly phrased and contradictory remark suggesting that an agreement is nearing conclusion …
Current Situation
Governments in populous nations are increasingly astute about negotiating terms for Apple’s market access, seeking local investments in exchange.
Initially, Indonesia requested a modest investment of $109M from Apple for a developer academy and an additional $10M for manufacturing. However, after this target wasn’t fully met, the government intensified its demands, placing a ban on iPhone 16 sales while requiring a significantly larger investment.
Apple’s initial proposal was $100M, which the government deemed insufficient. They then escalated their request to a $1 billion manufacturing investment. Last month, it was reported that Apple had consented to this, which would involve large-scale manufacturing of AirTags.
However, the Indonesian government unexpectedly rejected this offer, stating that only the production of iPhone components would be considered valid.
Possibility of Lifting iPhone 16 Ban in 1-2 Weeks
Bloomberg featured an interview today with Indonesia’s investment minister, Rosan Roeslani, expressing optimism that the situation would soon be resolved.
“I am confident it will be resolved very, very soon,” Roeslani stated in an interview with Bloomberg Television in Davos on Tuesday. “I hope that within one or two weeks, we can settle this matter.”
No specific details were provided about the basis of this optimism; instead, Roeslani offered a vague reference:
“I believe the way they assess it differs, and now they are finding a solution on that matter, so hopefully, they will accept the discrepancies, allowing the sale of the iPhone 16 in Indonesia.”
The phrase “now they are finding a solution” suggests that Apple may have made a new proposal, while “hopefully, they will accept the discrepancies” introduces uncertainty.
The resolution appears necessary for both parties involved, but the details remain unclear.
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