Indonesia Bans Google Pixel Phones Amid Local Sourcing Controversy
- Indonesia has banned the sale of Google Pixel phones due to noncompliance with local sourcing requirements.
- The local sourcing requirement states that 40 percent of a product's components must be sourced within the country.
- The ban aims to ensure fairness for all investors, and buyers can only purchase these phones abroad with applicable taxes.
On October 31, 2024, Indonesia implemented a ban on the sale of Google Pixel phones for failing to meet established local sourcing requirements. The Indonesian government mandates that 40 percent of the components for products sold in the country must be sourced locally. Febri Hendri Antoni Arief, spokesperson for the Indonesian Industry Ministry, indicated that the enforcement of this rule is intended to ensure fairness among all investors operating in Indonesia. Consequently, while Indonesians can purchase Google Pixel phones abroad, they are subject to additional taxation. Furthermore, the government is contemplating deactivating any Pixel phones sold unlawfully within the country. This action came just a week after Apple faced a similar ban concerning its iPhone 16 due to incomplete domestic investment commitments. The Indonesian authorities have emphasized the need for compliance with local regulations to maintain equitable competition for all market players.