Jakarta, Indonesia – Apple CEO Tim Cook has expressed interest in exploring manufacturing opportunities in Indonesia. This potential move comes as Cook continues his tour of Southeast Asia, following a fruitful visit to Vietnam where Apple committed to expanding its manufacturing base.
In discussions with President Joko Widodo, Cook highlighted the endless possibilities for investment within the country. "We talked about the president's desire to see manufacturing in the country, and it's something that we will look at," Cook said. His visit also included engagements with local Apple users and notable figures such as iPhone photographer Sofyan Pratama, and a visit to Jakarta’s Wayang Museum, celebrating Javanese puppetry.
This consideration aligns with Apple's strategy to diversify its manufacturing locations beyond China amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainties. Indonesia, with its burgeoning tech-savvy workforce and lower labor costs, presents an attractive option for such expansion.
Further demonstrating Apple's commitment to Indonesia, Cook announced the opening of a new Apple Developer Academy in Bali, adding to the existing ones in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Batam. These academies are part of Apple’s efforts to support local employment and tech innovation by equipping Indonesians with crucial skills for the global app economy.
Cook's visit underscores Apple's interest in integrating more deeply with local communities and expanding its operational footprint in Southeast Asia. However, any firm decisions regarding manufacturing in Indonesia will depend on detailed assessments of the regulatory landscape, local market dynamics, and economic stability.
Apple has not disclosed further details of Cook’s itinerary, leaving industry watchers eagerly anticipating the company's next moves in the region.
