Chinese authorities are scrutinizing Apple devices before allowing them to be sold in the country, claims a new report.
The reviews involve Chinese officials requiring executives of foreign tech companies to answer questions in person, with the concern being that companies like Apple may be forced to trade trade secrets for market access.
Chinese officials have not formally revealed that they are conducting these reviews, and nor is it known exactly what they are demanding as part of the process. According to one Chinese media report, the reviews began last year and have so far called in a number of companies over the past nine months.
The news comes at a crucial time for Apple and its relationship with China. Despite viewing the country as its next big market, Apple has recently butted heads with Chinese officials. Earlier this year, Chinese authorities reportedly demanded Apple give the country complete access to its source code, although Apple claims it refused to comply — despite suggestions otherwise.
Previously Apple has been forced to move its iCloud service in China onto state-owned servers after the country’s media lashed out at Apple over national security concerns. China has also stripped Apple of its exclusive iPhone trademark, while the government has banned Apple from operating its iBooks and iTunes Movies stores locally.
This week Tim Cook arrived in China for a visit, but it’s not yet known whether he’ll be meeting with any high-ranking officials during his time there.
Source: NY Times
