Asia News Wrap: Indonesia wants more local parts in phones, and more

Here are some key stories from Asia this week:

1. Indonesia’s Local Component Requirement for Smartphones: Indonesia plans to increase the local component requirements in smartphones, following the ban on Apple’s iPhone 16 for not meeting the 40% locally made parts requirement. Apple has proposed a $100 million investment to build a plant, but the government rejected it.
2. Tokyo to Implement Four-Day Workweek: Tokyo’s government will introduce a four-day workweek starting in April 2025 to improve working conditions amid a labor shortage. Governor Yuriko Koike highlighted the importance of flexible work styles, particularly for women.
3. China Launches New Satellite Group: China successfully launched a new batch of satellites from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center. The satellites will be part of the Spacesail Constellation, marking the 550th flight mission of the Long March rocket series.
4. Singapore’s Leadership Transition: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has succeeded Lee Hsien Loong as leader of Singapore’s ruling People’s Action Party, completing the transition to the fourth generation of leadership. Lee will remain on the party’s decision-making body.              Source – CGTN