Apple CEO Tim Cook reveals plan to build a research and development center in China. (Photo : Getty Images)
Apple CEO Tim Cook is in China again in a mission to boost sales for his company after the iPhone-maker recorded a slowed demand for their products in the previous months.
Cook and the rest of Apple Inc. love China because it is one of their biggest markets that brought tons of business opportunities for the Western company even though it is now becoming more difficult for non-Chinese countries to operate in the country amid stern regulations.
Apple's Troubles in China
The world is aware that China is becoming stricter by the second to tech companies especially ones that are not from or do not have partners in the country.
Despite its reputation in performing well in any country they set their eye on, Apple was no stranger to trouble in China especially in terms of content distribution.
One example of this is the shutting down of Apple's iTunes Movies and iBooks services per order of the Chinese government.
According to CNet, the company's sales in China went downhill since then and had even experienced legal grapples like the one on copyright infringement filed by a Chinese leather manufacturing company who use the "iPhone" brand in their bags and wallets.
Cook's Bargaining Chips
Because of this, Apple chief executive Tim Cook had to visit the country a second time this August to pledge his investment to the economically embattled country in exchange for support for his products.
During his visit this week, Cook met with China's Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli who told him and other foreign companies to increase their investments in the country and "expand the industrial chain of their business," according to the state-run Xinhua News Agency.
In response, Cook promised to do so and become an active partner in the country's "Internet Plus" strategy. He also revealed his plans to establish an Apple research and development facility in China before the end of 2016.
Additionally, the R&D center will also boost better ties between Apple and its Chinese counterparts.
"The new centre is also aimed at strengthening relationships with local partners and universities as we work to support talent development across the country," the statement read.
A Wall Street Journal report said that because of this, Apple gained China's approval and thus, expanded access to the country's vast customer base.
"He is trying to show he is learning and appreciates the local culture. This kind of investment will help build up a better relationship with the government," said IDC market research firm China research director Kitty Fok.
