China bans Apple iPhones and foreign-branded devices for government officials amid growing data security concerns

China has issued directives to officials working in central government agencies, instructing them not to use Apple iPhones and other foreign-branded devices for official purposes. While the specifics of the ban and its extent remain somewhat unclear, it has sparked concerns about data security and raised questions about its potential impact on foreign companies operating in China.

The ban comes just ahead of an anticipated Apple event, where analysts expect the tech giant to unveil its latest line of iPhones. This move could not only affect government officials but also trigger apprehension among foreign businesses operating within China as tensions between China and the United States continue to escalate.

China has been increasingly preoccupied with data security issues in recent years, prompting the introduction of new laws and compliance requirements for companies. However, the precise reasons and concerns that led to this ban on Apple iPhones and foreign-branded devices for government officials are not explicitly outlined in the report by TechCentral via the Wall Street Journal.

A report by Reuters in May notes China encouraged state-owned enterprises to take a central role in achieving self-reliance in technology, raising questions about the competitive landscape for foreign technology companies operating in the country.

Sino-US tensions have been running high, with Washington collaborating with its allies to limit China’s access to crucial equipment necessary for its semiconductor industry. In response, Beijing has imposed restrictions on shipments from prominent US companies, including plane maker Boeing and chip company Micron Technology. The ban on Apple devices for government officials may be seen as another manifestation of these ongoing tensions.

During a recent visit to China, US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo voiced concerns from US companies, who expressed unease about the business environment in China, citing fines, raids, and other actions that have made it increasingly risky to conduct business in the world’s second-largest economy.

Notably, this ban on foreign-branded devices for government officials echoes previous actions taken by both China and the United States against foreign tech companies. China previously imposed similar bans on Chinese smartphone maker Huawei and the short video platform TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance.

It’s important to note that China is one of Apple’s largest markets, contributing nearly one-fifth of its total revenue, a Chinese news media reports. The ban on Apple devices for government use could potentially impact the company’s sales in the region, though the exact magnitude of this effect remains to be seen.

As the situation continues to evolve, the international community will closely watch for any further developments and potential implications, particularly regarding data security, foreign business operations, and the broader dynamics of Sino-US relations.