The Indonesian government has taken a strong stance against major smartphone manufacturers, demanding that all smartphones and tablets sold in the country be at least 40% localized. Google has not met this requirement, leading to a ban on the sale of Google Pixel devices in Indonesia, according to TechCrunch.

The Ministry of Industry in Indonesia stated that Google Pixels will remain prohibited from sale until they consist of at least 40% local components. To resume sales, Google must obtain a compliance certificate, which would require investing in local economies and technologies, manufacturing components in Indonesia, or sourcing from local suppliers. Companies like Samsung and Xiaomi have already established production plants in the country to comply with these regulations.

For similar reasons, and due to unmet investment commitments, the sale of the iPhone 16 has also been prohibited. Although Apple opened four software development academies in Indonesia to meet the localization requirement, it invested less than the required amount.

It’s unclear if the ban applies to all models, but the government has promised to inspect online and offline stores for Google devices, deactivating any found in violation. Importing devices for personal use remains allowed.

Main image: pixel.google

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