The Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) continues to monitor the situation regarding the circulation of the iPhone 16 series entering Indonesia as luggage for passengers from abroad. The Ministry of Industry urges the public not to buy the iPhone 16 in this way.
“We have received public reports and are monitoring the distribution of the iPhone 16. There are already certain parties selling the iPhone 16 series, including through platforms online marketplace. “We ask the public not to be tempted to buy the iPhone 16 series that is being offered,” said Ministry of Industry spokesperson Febri Hendri Antoni Arif in his official statement, Thursday (31/10).
Febri reminded that purchasing iPhone 16 goods from abroad could be detrimental to society. One reason is that the purchase risk must be borne by the buyer, such as the absence of a guarantee from an official distributor. The Ministry of Industry also appealed to all parties, especially people who brought the iPhone 16 series from abroad, not to hand over their belongings to other parties, especially for the purpose of buying and selling them.
“The iPhone 16 series that people bring from abroad is legal. However, it becomes illegal if bought and sold. This is because it is no longer in accordance with the intended purpose when processing permits for the cellphone to enter Indonesia, namely for personal use. “Therefore, we are considering deactivating the IMEI of the iPhone 16 which came in via passenger luggage and if it is proven that it is being sold in Indonesia,” he explained.
Febri emphasized that all the policies taken by the Ministry of Industry are solely carried out so that PT Apple Indonesia fulfills its investment commitments and provides justice for all smartphone investors in Indonesia.
“Imagine, during 2023 and 2024 Apple will import and sell 3.8 million units of mobile phones, handheld computers and tablets in Indonesia. If it is assumed that Apple’s electronic devices are sold on average for IDR 5 million/unit domestically, then the sales value for one year reaches IDR 19 trillion and of course much higher if you add in the imports and sales of their HKT products since 2016. Ironically, with “The sales value is so high, they are still reluctant to realize 100% of their investment commitment worth IDR 1.7 trillion over eight years in Indonesia,” explained Febri. (Z-11)
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**Interview with Febri Hendri Antoni Arif, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Febri. There are growing concerns regarding the recent influx of the iPhone 16 series being sold in Indonesia after arriving as luggage from abroad. Can you explain why the Ministry of Industry is urging the public not to purchase these devices?
**Febri Hendri Antoni Arif:** Thank you for having me. We have been closely monitoring the situation concerning the distribution of the iPhone 16 in Indonesia. The key issue is that these devices may not come with the necessary guarantees or support from official distributors. This creates significant risks for consumers, such as potential device deactivation or lack of service availability.
**Editor:** What specific risks should potential buyers be aware of if they choose to purchase the iPhone 16 through unofficial channels?
**Febri:** One major risk is that if these phones are registered with an international IMEI that is not recognized in Indonesia, they can be deactivated at any time. This means that the money spent could be completely wasted. Additionally, consumers will not have access to warranty services or repairs, leaving them with a non-functional device.
**Editor:** Given the popularity of online marketplaces, how does the Ministry plan to address this situation effectively?
**Febri:** We’ve been in discussions with online platforms to ensure they comply with regulations and refrain from selling devices that may violate local laws. Our main aim is to protect consumers while also maintaining a fair market. We ask the public to stay vigilant and refrain from purchasing devices through unofficial sources.
**Editor:** Are there any measures the Ministry will implement to prevent unauthorized sales and protect consumers further?
**Febri:** Yes, we are continuously monitoring the situation and will take necessary actions against sellers who violate regulations. We are also increasing public awareness campaigns to inform consumers about the risks associated with buying imported devices that lack proper channels.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing this important information, Febri. Any final advice for consumers considering the iPhone 16?
**Febri:** My final advice would be to always buy from authorized retailers and official distributors. This ensures that you receive a product that is supported and protected under local laws. It’s better to wait and make an informed purchase than to risk buying something that could lead to complications down the line.
**Editor:** Thank you, Febri, for your insights. It’s essential for consumers to stay informed and make safe choices.
