POLITICO Tech Apple’s China dilemma
30 snips
Jul 3, 2025 
Patrick McGee, author of 'Apple in China: The Capture of the World’s Greatest Company,' dives into how Apple's deep-rooted reliance on China has reshaped its business strategy. He discusses the intricate dance between Apple and Beijing, revealing the toxic codependency that has emerged amid U.S.-China trade tensions. McGee highlights the challenges Apple faces, from local regulations to potential shifts in production, and offers strategic lessons for other businesses navigating similar geopolitical waters.
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China Crucial to Apple's Success
- Apple's success relies heavily on its relationship with China, not just Silicon Valley design genius.
- Their innovative outsourcing model gave them control akin to owning manufacturing without owning factories.
Apple Faces Political Pressure in China
- Under Xi Jinping, China's leadership grew aggressive about foreign firms and wary of Apple's influence.
- Apple feared product blacklisting and had to adapt politically to succeed.
Apple's Ethical Compromises in China
- Apple has complied with Chinese censorship and local laws to maintain success.
- Survival depends on building political ties and complying with local officials despite ethical concerns.
