Beijing, November 30, 2024 – The Europe Today: The second China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE), currently underway in Beijing, is providing an extraordinary glimpse into the intricate global supply chain of Apple Inc. At its booth, the U.S. tech giant has partnered with four leading Chinese suppliers—CRYSTAL-OPTECH, Goertek, LY iTECH, and others—to showcase dismantled iPhone components, highlighting their contributions to Apple’s innovation ecosystem.
Unlike traditional expos focusing on finished products, the CISCE emphasizes supply chain collaboration, aligning with Apple’s strategy of fostering long-term partnerships with Chinese enterprises. This marks Apple’s second participation in the event, reflecting its commitment to strengthening ties with the world’s second-largest economy.
Apple CEO Tim Cook, during his visit to the booth, remarked, “We could not do what we do without our Chinese partners,” reinforcing the importance of the country to Apple’s supply chain. Cook also highlighted Apple’s investment of $20 billion in green and smart manufacturing initiatives in China over the past five years.
Apple’s extensive global supply chain is anchored significantly in China, where over 80 percent of its 200 major suppliers have established factories. Jeff Williams, Apple’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the critical role of China in Apple’s operations, stating, “There’s no supply chain in the world that’s more critical to us than China.”
The featured Chinese suppliers at CISCE have made significant technological advancements through their collaboration with Apple. For instance, CRYSTAL-OPTECH’s tetraprism technology, enabling a 5x optical zoom on the latest iPhones, was developed over three years in close partnership with Apple. Similarly, Goertek and LY iTECH have achieved breakthroughs in manufacturing automation and component production, driving growth and innovation.
LY iTECH, which has collaborated with Apple for 15 years, is investing 2.2 billion yuan in a new industrial park in Guangdong Province, projected to reach an annual output value of 5 billion yuan by 2026. The company has also expanded internationally with factories in India, Vietnam, and Brazil.
Apple’s engagement at CISCE underscores China’s integral role in the global supply chain, with the country’s robust industrial system attracting international giants seeking strategic partnerships. The expo’s focus on collaboration reinforces the interconnectedness of global trade, as noted by John Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce: “A functioning and inclusive trading system is essential for the benefit of all businesses and individuals.”
As CISCE continues until Saturday, it highlights the critical role of supply chain innovation in shaping global trade and fostering economic collaboration.
