Vice Premier Ding Duexiang welcomed Apple CEO Tim Cook to participate in the development of China’s digital economy.
Apple CEO Tim Cook pictured at the ‘Wonderlust’ event held at the company’s headquarters in Cupertino, California, U.S. on September 12, 2023.
Cook’s visit coincided with the recent Chinese launch of the iPhone 15, and it comes as Apple faces increased competition from China’s Huawei in its third-largest market, while Beijing strengthens security oversight.
The sales of iPhone 15 models during their initial 17 days in China were 4.5% lower compared to the iPhone 14, as reported by Counterpoint Research, although specific figures were not disclosed.
In September, China expanded restrictions on the use of iPhones by government employees, instructing some central government agencies to cease using Apple devices for work-related purposes.
Ding informed Cook during their meeting on Thursday that China is open to offering additional opportunities for foreign-funded companies like Apple to grow and invest in the country, as stated by Chinese state radio.
Cook expressed Apple’s optimism regarding the potential of the Chinese market and the company’s readiness to enhance collaboration with China, particularly in areas such as high-end manufacturing and the digital economy, according to the state radio’s report.
Reported by Ethan Wang and Bernard Orr
