Apple CEO Tim Cook's recent visit to Indonesia signals the tech giant's interest in exploring investment opportunities in Southeast Asia's largest economy and potentially diversifying its supply chains away from China. Cook met with Indonesia's President Joko Widodo, commonly known as Jokowi, at the presidential palace in Jakarta to discuss the country's investment potential and the possibility of manufacturing Apple products locally.

During the meeting, Cook emphasized Indonesia's importance as a market for Apple and expressed interest in exploring manufacturing opportunities within the country. He highlighted the limitless investment potential in Indonesia and reiterated Apple's commitment to exploring opportunities for growth and collaboration.

In line with this, Apple announced plans to expand its developer academies in Indonesia, adding a new facility on the island of Bali. This move reflects Apple's recognition of Indonesia's young and tech-savvy population, with a significant number of smartphone users primarily using Android devices.

Cook's visit also raised expectations regarding potential new Apple investments in Indonesia, including the establishment of a smartphone manufacturing facility. The Indonesian Minister of Communication and Informatics, Budi Arie Setiadi, suggested that discussions during Cook's visit could involve proposals for new Apple investments given the large user base of Apple products in Indonesia.

Despite Apple's significant presence in Indonesia, particularly among tech-savvy youth, the company has yet to open an official retail store in the country. This has resulted in consumers primarily relying on resale platforms to access Apple products.

Cook's visit underscores Apple's strategic interest in expanding its footprint in Indonesia, tapping into its vibrant tech ecosystem, and potentially leveraging the country as a key manufacturing hub in Southeast Asia.