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Apple CEO Tim Cook Renews Commitment to China in Meeting with Chinese Vice-Premier
Updated: Dec 27, 2023
[Edited] In a recent meeting with Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang, Apple CEO Tim Cook reaffirmed Apple's commitment to China and expressed confidence in the Chinese market.
The meeting took place in Beijing and focused on Apple's participation in the development of China's digital economy and hi-tech supply chain.
Amidst controversies surrounding national security and censorship, Apple is seeking to shift its narrative in China. Cook's surprise trip to China included meetings with high-ranking officials such as Ministry of Industry and Information Technology head Jin Zhuanglong and Ren Hongbin, the chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.
While these closed-door discussions come at a time when Beijing has imposed restrictions on government workers' use of iPhones and there are concerns about the Chinese App Store's compliance with local censorship regulations, Vice-Premier Ding assured Cook that China's doors are open and the country is committed to providing more opportunities and a better environment for foreign enterprises, including Apple.
Cook, in turn, expressed Apple's confidence in the Chinese market and its willingness to strengthen cooperation in high-end manufacturing, the digital economy, and other fields. This aligns with recent evidence that China will remain Apple's most important supply chain for iPhones and newer product lines, despite the company's efforts to diversify its supply chain following supply difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Prior to meeting with Vice-Premier Ding, Cook visited manufacturing facilities operated by Luxshare Precision Industry Co, a major Apple supplier. Cook also expressed excitement about the work done by Chinese-based developers on apps for the upcoming Vision Pro headset.
Vice-Premier Ding's remarks about China's openness to Apple reflect Beijing's broader efforts to attract more foreign investment as part of its post-pandemic economic recovery. While foreign direct investment in the mainland has seen a decline, hi-tech manufacturing has experienced growth.
This meeting between Tim Cook and Vice-Premier Ding highlights the ongoing partnership between Apple and China. Despite challenges and controversies, Apple remains committed to the Chinese market and sees opportunities for collaboration in various sectors. As China continues to prioritize foreign investment, Apple's presence and cooperation in the country's digital economy and hi-tech supply chain will play a significant role in shaping the future of technology in China.
Apple CEO Tim Cook met with Chinese Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang to discuss Apple's commitment to China.
The meeting focused on Apple's participation in developing China's digital economy and hi-tech supply chain.
Despite controversies, Cook expressed confidence in the Chinese market and willingness to strengthen cooperation.
Source: SCMP