TMTPOST -- Indonesia's communications ministry announced on Friday that it has issued telecommunications permits for five models of Apple's upcoming iPhone 16, marking a significant step toward allowing sales in the country after a previous domestic ban. The permits were granted just a week after Indonesia awarded local content certificates to 20 Apple products, including the iPhone 16 series. However, Apple still requires an import permit from the trade ministry before it can officially sell the iPhones in the local market, according to the industry ministry. Last year, Indonesia, a Southeast Asian nation with a population of approximately 280 million, banned sales of the iPhone 16 due to Apple's failure to meet local content requirements, which mandate the use of domestically manufactured components. Analysts have warned that such regulations could undermine investor confidence and raise concerns about protectionism. The five models that received telecommunications permits are the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max. This development follows Apple's recent announcement of plans to invest over $300 million in Indonesia, including the establishment of manufacturing facilities for product components and a research and development center. The move underscores Apple's commitment to expanding its presence in the region while addressing local regulatory requirements.