Apple pledges to boost investment in China amid U.S. tensions

Apple has pledged to increase its investment in China despite ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing, CEO Tim Cook said during a meeting with China’s industry minister.

Cook met with China’s Industry Minister Li Lecheng on Wednesday, and an official summary released by the Chinese government confirmed Apple’s commitment to continued investment in the country. The report did not specify the size of the potential investment.

Many U.S. companies have become cautious in China amid tariff disputes and President Donald Trump’s push to promote domestic manufacturing. While some firms, including Nvidia and Qualcomm, have faced Chinese investigations, Apple has largely avoided trade war disruptions.

In August, Cook presented Trump with a U.S.-made plaque celebrating Apple’s “American Manufacturing Program,” pledging an additional $100 billion for domestic manufacturing. Analysts suggest some of Apple’s announcements may serve public relations purposes, as tangible investments have not been publicly detailed.

Apple has also made smaller investments in China, such as a $101 million clean energy fund announced during Cook’s March visit. At the same time, the company is diversifying its supply chain by shifting some production to India to reduce geopolitical risks.

Recently, Apple COO Sabih Khan visited Lens Technology, a long-time Chinese glass supplier, which produces covers for iPhones and Apple Watches. The visit highlights Apple’s ongoing collaboration with Chinese partners.

Minister Li told Cook that China hopes Apple will continue to grow alongside local suppliers and assured the tech giant that the country will maintain a favourable business environment for foreign firms.

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