Apple iPhone Shipments Set to Decline Again in China as Huawei Strengthens Market Position
- tech360.tv
- Jun 2, 2025
- 2 min read
Apple is expected to face another year of declining iPhone shipments in China, as competition from domestic brands intensifies and economic challenges persist, according to market research firm IDC.
iPhone shipments in China are forecast to fall 1.9% in 2025, driven by Huawei Technologies’ resurgence and a broader economic slowdown. The exclusion of most iPhone models from a Chinese government subsidy programme, which targets consumer electronics priced under 6,000 yuan (USD 818), has also contributed to the projected decline.
Meanwhile, total smartphone shipments in China are expected to grow 3% this year, boosted by government subsidies that favour Android devices.
Apple’s struggles in China have been mounting. In the quarter ending March 29, the company reported a 2.25% year-on-year sales drop in the Greater China region, which includes mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. This followed an 8% revenue decline for the financial year ending Sept. 28, 2024, and a 2% drop for the year ending Sept. 30, 2023.
In the first quarter of 2025, iPhone shipments in China fell 9% year-on-year, making Apple the only top-five vendor to record a decline, according to IDC. In contrast, Xiaomi’s shipments surged 39.9%, while Huawei’s rose 10%.
Sales figures mirrored this trend. Market research firm Counterpoint reported a 7.7% year-on-year drop in iPhone sales in the first quarter, while Huawei’s handset sales jumped 28.5%.
Chinese smartphone makers have been quick to integrate artificial intelligence features into their devices. Apple, however, is still awaiting regulatory approval to launch its own AI service, Apple Intelligence, in China.
Despite these challenges, IDC noted that heavy discounts during China’s midyear 618 shopping festival could provide a temporary boost for iPhone sales. Additionally, the upcoming launch of the iPhone 17 series in September, expected to include major hardware upgrades, may help stabilise Apple’s position in the Chinese market.
iPhone shipments in China forecast to drop 1.9% in 2025
Huawei and Xiaomi see strong growth amid Apple’s decline
Apple excluded from Chinese subsidy programme for devices under USD 818
Source: SCMP
