Apple CEO Tim Cook attended a high-level meeting of over 20 global business leaders in Beijing on Monday and met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
The discussions, which included prominent figures from companies such as Rio Tinto, Corning and the Charoen Pokphand Group, focused primarily on the stability of supply chains and trade relations.
This meeting comes at a time when international businesses are grappling with growing economic uncertainty and possible trade disruptions.
Supply chains and trade in focus
The meeting, held just before a supply chain expo in Beijing, was attended by Chinese business leaders such as the heads of Lenovo and ICBC.
The discussions focused on critical issues surrounding supply chains and trade, according to a guest list obtained by Bloomberg News.
This high-level dialogue marks the first such meeting between foreign companies and a senior Chinese politician since Donald Trump’s re-election.
The timing is significant as businesses worldwide anticipate possible tariff increases on Chinese goods under the incoming Trump administration.
China’s prime minister rejects decoupling
As China National Radio reported, Premier Li Qiang addressed those in attendance, emphasizing China’s resistance to decoupling from the global economy and the importance of maintaining stable global supply chains.
He also reaffirmed China’s commitment to continued economic development.
Apple’s close ties to China
Trade disruptions are a particular concern for Apple, which relies heavily on China for iPhone production and sees the country as a crucial market.
Most iPhones are manufactured by Foxconn in China and the country is Apple’s largest market outside the United States.
This underlines the importance of the meeting for Apple and its CEO.
The visit is Cook’s third trip to China this year and underscores the importance of the relationship.
Just last month, Cook reaffirmed Apple’s commitment to further investment in China, emphasizing the country’s critical role in Apple’s global operations.
During Monday’s meeting, Cook reiterated that message and publicly praised Apple’s Chinese partners.
“I appreciate her very much. Without them, we couldn’t do what we do,” Cook said in response to a question about these partnerships, according to a social media account affiliated with China Central Television.
Beijing is seeking foreign investment despite economic challenges
The Chinese government is actively encouraging foreign investment as the country grapples with a post-Covid economic slowdown.
The meeting with Premier Li reflects this effort to maintain close ties with international companies.
AmCham China participates in the high-level dialogue
The American Chamber of Commerce in China (AmCham China), represented by President Michael Hart, confirmed its participation in the meeting.
The discussions focused on strengthening the resilience of supply chains and expanding bilateral and multilateral engagement.
This is AmCham China’s first meeting with a Chinese premier since May 2022.
Premier Li held a roundtable with foreign executives at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai earlier this month.
Prominent figures who attended Monday’s meeting included Thai billionaire Dhanin Chearavanont and Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.
Chairman Matsumoto Masayoshi, Robin Zeng of Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. and Li Dongsheng, Chairman of TCL Technology Group Corp.
The meeting took place at the same time as Nvidia Corp. instead of.
CEO Jensen Huang visited Hong Kong over the weekend to receive an honorary doctorate.
PAA-style question: To what extent did the CEOs’ visit with Premier Li Qiang signal a shift in US business strategy toward China, considering the ongoing trade tensions and potential for further economic decoupling?
## World Today News Interview: Global CEOs and China’s Premier
**Welcome to World Today News. Today we’re discussing the recent meeting between Tim Cook and over 20 global CEOs with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.**
Joining us today are two esteemed guests:
* **[Guest 1 Name & Credentials]** with expertise in international business relations.
* **[Guest 2 Name & Credentials]** specializing in Chinese economic policy.
**I. Setting the Stage: Trade Tensions & Supply Chain Concerns**
* **For our viewers, could you briefly describe the context surrounding this meeting? What are some of the key concerns facing international businesses regarding trade relations and supply chains, particularly in light of the potential for tariff increases on Chinese goods? (Directed to Guest 1)**
* **China has been emphasizing its commitment to globalization and stable supply chains. Premier Li Qiang specifically mentioned rejecting decoupling from the global economy. How realistic is this ambition in the current geopolitical climate? (Directed to Guest 2)**
**II. Apple’s Strategic Importance & Tim Cook’s Visit**
* **Apple heavily relies on China for production and sales. How crucial is this meeting for Apple, given the potential disruptions to its supply chain? What message did Tim Cook likely hope to convey during his visit? (Directed to Guest 1)**
* **Chinese officials have been actively encouraging foreign investment even amidst economic challenges. What are the implications of this meeting for future US-China business relations, particularly in sectors like technology? (Directed to Guest 2)**
**III. The Role of AmCham China and Broader Global Perspectives**
* **AmCham China participated in this high-level dialog. What does its involvement signal about the role of business groups in navigating these complex international issues? (Directed to Guest 1)**
* **This meeting was not just about China and the US but included CEOs from diverse industries and countries. How might other global players perceive this dynamic and what are some potential ramifications for the global economy? (Directed to Guest 2)**
**IV. Looking Ahead: Future Prospects and Challenges**
* **What are some of the potential outcomes and long-term implications of this meeting for global trade and investment? (Open to both guests)**
* **What key challenges and opportunities do you foresee for businesses operating in the complex interplay between US-China relations and global economic uncertainty? (Open to both guests)**
**Closing Remarks:**
Thank you both for sharing your valuable insights with us today. This meeting offers a glimpse into the ongoing complexities of international business in a rapidly evolving world.
**Remember to subscribe to World Today News for further analysis on this developing story.**
