Hafid said the move was under review after authorities identified cases of children becoming victims of scams through online shopping platforms. She did not provide details on how such a ban would be implemented or enforced.

The proposal follows a sweeping regulation introduced in March prohibiting under-16s from accessing social media platforms, part of a broader initiative to shield young users from risks including cyberbullying, online exploitation, and internet addiction.

Indonesia’s earlier restrictions initially targeted eight platforms deemed “high risk,” including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox, with plans to extend coverage to all digital platforms over time.

The government’s actions come amid growing global scrutiny of online safety for minors. Officials have cited concerns over exposure to harmful content and fraudulent activity as key drivers of policy expansion into e-commerce.

Indonesia is among the largest digital markets in Southeast Asia, with tens of millions of young internet users, making enforcement and compliance key considerations as authorities weigh broader platform restrictions.

South Korea’s proactive engagement with the United States on chip tariffs highlights its commitment to protecting a vital industry while reinforcing long-standing trade and technology partnerships.

South Korea has announced plans to engage in constructive negotiations with the United States to secure favorable tariff terms on semiconductor exports, signaling confidence in diplomatic and economic cooperation.

Officials emphasized that the country aims to ensure its globally competitive memory chip sector is treated fairly under evolving US trade policies related to advanced computing and artificial intelligence chips.

The move reflects South Korea’s broader strategy of safeguarding its core industries while maintaining stable and predictable trade relations with key economic partners.

Semiconductors remain one of South Korea’s most important export pillars, supporting growth, innovation, and high-value employment across the economy.

By seeking clarity and balanced outcomes on tariffs, Seoul is reinforcing its role as a reliable and strategic player in the global technology supply chain.

Government representatives noted that previous trade understandings with the United States already include provisions to prevent discriminatory treatment against South Korean chipmakers.

These assurances provide a strong foundation for discussions and help reduce uncertainty for businesses operating in fast-moving global markets.

South Korean officials have expressed confidence that negotiations will reflect mutual interests, especially given the close alliance between the two countries.

The United States and South Korea have long collaborated in technology, defense, and manufacturing, creating deep economic interdependence.

South Korea’s memory chip leaders are central to global electronics production, supplying components essential for smartphones, data centers, and AI-driven applications.

Their continued access to international markets is seen as critical not only for South Korea but also for global technology stability.

Trade authorities have also indicated that any potential impact from new US tariffs on advanced chips is expected to be manageable for domestic companies.

This assessment reflects the strength, scale, and technological edge of South Korea’s semiconductor firms.

Companies have diversified production, invested heavily in research, and built resilient supply chains to adapt to policy shifts.

South Korea’s approach underscores its focus on dialogue rather than confrontation, aiming to align trade rules with shared economic goals.

Negotiations are expected to highlight the contribution South Korean chips make to US technology industries and innovation ecosystems.

Memory chips produced by South Korean firms are essential inputs for US-based cloud services, AI platforms, and consumer electronics brands.

Ensuring smooth trade flows supports competitiveness and innovation on both sides of the Pacific.

Analysts view the talks as part of a broader trend of governments coordinating more closely on semiconductor policy amid rising global demand.

As artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and digital infrastructure expand, chips have become a strategic priority worldwide.

South Korea has positioned itself at the center of this transformation through sustained investment and skilled talent development.

The government continues to work closely with industry leaders to maintain technological leadership and global market share.

Officials reiterated that their goal is not only to address tariffs but also to strengthen long-term cooperation with the United States.

Such cooperation includes joint research, supply chain resilience, and alignment on standards for next-generation technologies.

The positive tone of the discussions reflects confidence in diplomacy and shared economic interests.

South Korea’s engagement also sends a reassuring signal to investors and global partners about policy stability.

Stable trade conditions are essential for capital-intensive industries like semiconductors, where long-term planning is critical.

By acting early, South Korea aims to minimize disruptions and maintain momentum in its export-driven growth strategy.

The semiconductor sector continues to be a cornerstone of South Korea’s global competitiveness and innovation capacity.

As negotiations move forward, expectations remain optimistic that balanced solutions will emerge.

The outcome could further strengthen the US–South Korea technology partnership at a time of rapid digital transformation.

Overall, South Korea’s decision to negotiate reflects confidence, pragmatism, and a forward-looking vision for its semiconductor industry.

The groundbreaking policy marks a transformative moment in global online governance and has been widely welcomed by families, educators, and child-safety advocates.

Beginning at midnight, ten major platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, were instructed to block underage users or face substantial penalties.

The move positions Australia as a pioneer in protecting young people from digital harms such as bullying, body-image pressures, misinformation, and addictive platform behaviour.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the reform as a proud achievement for families and a demonstration that modern governments can act decisively to safeguard children.

He noted that the restrictions would encourage healthier habits among teens, especially during the upcoming summer break, urging them to rediscover books, sports, and creative activities.

Young Australians expressed mixed feelings as the transition began, with some feeling uncertain about adapting to life without social media, while others showed readiness for the change.

For thousands of teens, farewell messages appeared online before accounts were disabled, creating a symbolic moment marking the end of an era.

The policy rollout has significant global implications, with governments across Europe, Asia, and Oceania examining Australia’s model as a potential blueprint.

Lawmakers abroad have praised the initiative, emphasizing its potential to reshape digital child-protection frameworks worldwide.

The decision followed extensive research highlighting the mental-health risks of early social media exposure, including increased anxiety, harmful social comparisons, and exposure to unsafe content.

By reasserting control over digital environments, Australia aims to create safer online spaces while supporting healthier social development.

Digital regulators and experts say the ban provides an opportunity to test new safety technologies such as age-inference tools, identity checks, and behaviour-based age verification systems.

These technologies will help platforms comply with new requirements while ensuring continual updates as young users shift to emerging apps.

The eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, praised parents for supporting the reform and noted strong international interest in adopting similar protective measures.

She emphasized that prioritizing the wellbeing of children over digital-industry pressures is a crucial step in shaping a more responsible online future.

Tech companies, though initially hesitant, have begun implementing the required changes, acknowledging that the law represents a new regulatory chapter.

While some platforms warned about potential long-term impacts on user pipelines, many accepted that safer digital ecosystems are essential for global trust and long-term stability.

As more than a million young users lose access, the transition is expected to reshape how teens spend their time, communicate, and form social connections.

Experts say the shift may encourage more meaningful offline engagement and reduce reliance on digital validation cycles.

The legislation stands as one of Australia’s most influential social policy reforms in recent years.

It signals a major cultural moment, marking the country’s dedication to fostering healthier lifestyles, stronger communities, and more secure digital futures for young people.

With countries already signalling interest in learning from Australia’s approach, this new chapter in digital regulation may spark a global movement.

Australia’s bold step sets a high standard for protecting children while promoting responsible technology use in an increasingly connected world.