(Beijing) Apple fans celebrated Friday in Beijing the 30 years in China of the American giant, which thus begins its fourth decade in the country – from where it would however seek to withdraw part of its production.
The Californian company organized a series of events in the Chinese capital to celebrate its long presence in this market, which is crucial for it.
In the Apple store in the trendy commercial district of Sanlitun, enthusiasts came to attend the screening of several short films entirely shot and edited with Apple products.
“I’ve been an Apple fan for a long time,” Hu Jiarong, a 17-year-old schoolboy, said outside the store.
“You could even say that I’m an absolute fan. My first iPhone was a 6S and here I am at 14 Pro. »
Since establishing itself in China in 1993, the American giant has become a major supplier of smartphones, computers, tablets and consumer electronics in the country.
Its sales were however affected last year by the reduction of production in its factories, against the backdrop of a strict anti-COVID-19 health policy which imposed numerous quarantines and closures.
U.S. export controls on high-tech components also threaten the company’s supply chain.
But Apple and its products continue to enjoy undeniable popularity in China.
In front of the Sanlitun store, Vicky Zhang, a 22-year-old student, told AFP that she has been using the brand’s iPhones since middle school because “the comfort of use is very good”.
Will the potential relocation of some production out of China affect its future purchases of Apple products?
” I do not think so. This is the current trend. And from my perspective, that doesn’t take away from the respect I have for the brand,” she says.
In March, Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, visited Beijing. In particular, he said his company had a “symbiotic” relationship with China.
“For 30 years, we’ve been proud to serve the people” of this country, Cook said in a statement Friday.
“We will continue to play our part in improving the lives of Chinese customers, helping them reach their full potential and doing our best to make the world a better place.” »
