Indonesia bans Google Pixel after iPhone block over local sourcing rules

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Indonesia bans Google Pixel after iPhone block over local sourcing rules

Indonesia bans Google Pixel after iPhone block over local sourcing rules

Industry News
Nov 06,24

The Google Pixel ban follows the recent prohibition of Apple’s iPhone 16, which was similarly blocked due to Apple’s alleged failure to fulfill local investment commitments.

Indonesia bans Google Pixel after iPhone block over local sourcing rules

Indonesia has banned the sale of Google Pixel smartphones, following its recent block on Apple’s iPhone 16. The ban aims to boost domestic manufacturing by enforcing a regulation that requires a minimum of 40% locally-sourced components in imported devices. Google, however, does not officially distribute Pixel phones in Indonesia, and they currently fail to meet this requirement, according to a Reuters report.

"We enforce these rules to ensure fair conditions for all investors in Indonesia. Google’s products haven't met our standards, so they’re not allowed for sale here," stated Febri Hendri Antoni Arief, Spokesperson, Ministry of Industry. While consumers can still buy Google Pixel devices abroad and bring them into the country, they must pay the necessary import taxes. However, authorities caution that unauthorised Pixel phones may be deactivated within Indonesia.

The Google Pixel ban follows the recent prohibition of Apple’s iPhone 16, which was similarly blocked due to Apple’s alleged failure to fulfill local investment commitments. Indonesia’s "Domestic Component Level" (TKDN) certification mandates that products include at least 40% Indonesian components, and Apple has yet to meet this threshold. Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita confirmed that iPhone 16 devices currently operating in Indonesia are considered “illegal” and urged citizens to report unauthorised units.

Apple's certification delay is reportedly linked to incomplete investments in local research and development, despite Tim Cook, CEO, Apple’s discussions with President Joko Widodo in April. As a result, Indonesia has withheld IMEI certification for the iPhone 16 and other recent Apple products, including the Apple Watch Series 10, making them unavailable in the Indonesian market.

(TOI)