JAKARTA – Minister of Industry, Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, underscored Indonesia’s pivotal role as a significant market for Apple Inc.’s products. Citing data, Agus Gumiwang revealed that in 2022, Indonesia imported 2.79 million units of smartphones, with Apple products accounting for 85% of the total. “Out of the 2.79 million units, I can confirm that 85% are Apple products,” Agus informed reporters at the Merdeka Palace on Wednesday (17/4/2024). Nevertheless, he expressed Indonesia’s aspiration for Apple to incorporate more local components into its products through investments in the country. He highlighted one such investment initiative by Apple, focusing on education for prospective Apple developers. “Apple has adopted a particularly unique approach, which we have embraced in calculating the Domestic Component Level (TKDN). This approach hinges on their investment, notably in establishing educational infrastructure for future developers, such as the Apple Developer Academy,” Agus explained. Additionally, the Minister urged Apple Inc. to commit to establishing manufacturing facilities in Indonesia, citing the country’s existing comprehensive ecosystem for mobile phone components. “This [commitment to establishing facilities] is something we are eager to promote. The reality is that mobile phone components are readily available in Indonesia, including batteries, cables, and other essentials. We will explore potential collaborations with Apple to integrate locally sourced products, which we have already prepared,” he stated. Meanwhile, during a meeting with President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, and Minister of Communication and Information Technology Budi Arie Setiadi at the State Palace on Wednesday (17/4/2024), Apple Inc. CEO Tim Cook expressed his admiration for Indonesia. He particularly praised the country’s market sentiment towards their products. “I am delighted to be in Indonesia. This country is a crucial market for us, and I have had positive discussions with the President regarding our commitment to Indonesia,” said Tim Cook.
