Apple, China's Commerce Minister Discuss Trade, Investment

On March 24, Wang Wentao, the Minister of Commerce, held a meeting with Tim Cook, the Chief Executive Officer of Apple Inc. The primary focus of the meeting was on the development of Apple's business in China and the broader economic and trade relations between the two nations.

Wang Wentao emphasized the robust nature of the Chinese economy, highlighting its resilience and vitality. He noted that China has become a hotbed for innovation and development, and the country is committed to expanding its openness to the world. Wang assured that China provides a fair competitive environment for foreign enterprises and supports their participation in policies aimed at boosting consumption, such as the "trade-in" program. He welcomed Apple's continued investment in China and encouraged the company to deepen its integration into the Chinese market to seize the opportunities for mutual growth.

Wang Wentao also stressed the importance of avoiding trade conflicts and the futility of protectionism. He pointed out that as the two largest economies in the world, cooperation between China and the United States is in line with economic principles. Decoupling and breaking supply chains would harm all parties involved. Wang criticized unilateral measures such as tariffs imposed by the U.S., which disrupt business operations and create uncertainty for the global economy. He expressed China's willingness to work with the U.S. through equal dialogue to create a more stable policy environment for businesses.

Tim Cook, in response, highlighted that Apple's operations in China serve as a model for mutually beneficial economic cooperation between the two countries. He reiterated Apple's commitment to increasing its investments in China, particularly in areas such as supply chain management, research and development, and social welfare. Cook emphasized that the business community plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between the two nations and that Apple is dedicated to contributing to the stable and healthy development of Sino-U.S. economic relations.