Apple broadening ties with local suppliers to drive innovative solutions

Apple Inc will continue to invest in China and collaborate closely with local suppliers to drive innovative solutions, as the US-based iPhone maker deepens its foothold in the world's second-largest consumer market, senior executives said on Wednesday.

"China's smart manufacturing capabilities undoubtedly hold a leading position globally," said Iris Cui, vice-president of Asia procurement and operations at Apple, during the third China International Supply Chain Expo that opened in Beijing on Wednesday.

"The entire lineup of Apple products, including its most sophisticated offerings like the Vision Pro and iPhone, are manufactured in China," Cui said. "This serves as clear evidence of the high level of China's smart manufacturing capabilities."

Apple is partnering with three Chinese suppliers — Sunwoda, Shandong Innovation Group and Jiangsu Justech Precision Industry Co — to participate in this year's expo, showcasing achievements in smart manufacturing and environmental protection together.

Sunwoda's self-developed magnetic levitation conveyor line, displayed during the expo, has improved in transport speed, positioning accuracy and equipment reusability compared to traditional belt and rotary conveyor systems, said Wang Wei, president and chairman of the battery supplier.

Wang said the lithium battery digital twin factory integrates AI with data middleware, enabling real-time production monitoring, remote diagnostics and self-adaptive optimization through digital twin technology.

"Beyond the conventional focus on automation while discussing smart manufacturing, today's advancement actually involves greater utilization of cutting-edge technologies and data-driven decision-making. I believe this evolution has substantially enhanced the substantive value of China's smart manufacturing capabilities," Cui added.

In addition to smart manufacturing, two-thirds of Apple's production in China already operate on 100 percent clean energy. Over 90 local suppliers have committed to powering all Apple production with 100 percent clean energy by 2030, according to Cui.

Isabel Ge Mahe, vice-president and managing director of Apple Greater China, said that over the past five-plus years, Apple has invested over $20 billion in China's smart manufacturing and green manufacturing sectors.

"We take great pride in having built such a robust supply chain system here, and we remain committed to deepening our roots in China through continued investment," she said. "Having witnessed the innovation capabilities of local suppliers, we will persist in pioneering collaboration alongside them."

Noting that Apple has taken part in the expo three times in a row, she said: "We are keen to continue participating in similar events given China's vibrant local innovation ecosystem and highly advanced supply chain."