Apple's $10B Indonesia Bet: iPhone Ban Lift, Jobs Boost

Apple Inc. is seeking to lift Indonesia's ban on iPhone sales by proposing a significant investment in the Southeast Asian nation. The tech giant has offered to establish two new manufacturing plants and a pioneering chip research center in the country, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The Indonesian government imposed the ban in late 2024, citing unpaid import duties and taxes. Apple has since been in talks with Indonesian officials to resolve the issue and resume iPhone sales in the market. The proposed investment is seen as a strategic move by Apple to strengthen its presence in the region and tap into Indonesia's growing consumer market.

The two new manufacturing plants are expected to produce a range of Apple products, including iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers. The chip research center, which will be the first of its kind in the region, is aimed at developing cutting-edge semiconductor technology for Apple's devices. The investment is also expected to create thousands of jobs in the country and contribute to Indonesia's economic growth.

Indonesia, the world's fourth most populous country, has emerged as a key market for global tech companies. The country's growing middle class and increasing smartphone penetration have made it an attractive destination for investments in the electronics industry. Apple's proposed investment is seen as a vote of confidence in Indonesia's economic prospects and a sign of the company's commitment to the region.

The Indonesian government has welcomed Apple's proposal and is currently evaluating the details of the investment. If the deal is finalized, it could pave the way for a significant expansion of Apple's operations in the country and a potential end to the iPhone ban. The outcome of the negotiations will be closely watched by the tech industry and investors, as it could set a precedent for future investments in the region.