Indonesia Bans Google Pixel Sales After Similar Move on iPhone 16
The Indonesian government has halted sales of Google Pixel phones, citing a rule that requires at least 40% of smartphone components to be produced locally. This decision follows a similar ban on Apple’s iPhone 16 for failing to meet the same requirement.
According to Industry Ministry spokesperson Febri Hendri Antoni Arief, the local content regulation ensures fair competition and encourages investment in Indonesia. “Google’s products haven’t adhered to our requirements, so they can’t be sold here,” he explained, adding that while consumers can buy Pixel phones abroad and pay the necessary taxes, any illegally sold phones might be deactivated.
The ministry reported that around 22,000 Pixel phones entered Indonesia this year, despite the rule. Meanwhile, Indonesian consumers largely prefer Chinese and South Korean brands like OPPO and Samsung, which lead the market.
Experts warn that this protectionist move could deter foreign investors. Bhima Yudhistira from the Center of Economic and Law Studies (Celios) commented, “This policy may create negative sentiment for investors aiming to enter Indonesia’s market.” Nonetheless, Indonesia’s large, tech-savvy population continues to attract interest from global tech companies.
