Apple has announced it will reduce the commission fees it charges developers on its App Store in mainland China, marking a major win for local developers in one of the company’s most important markets.
The U.S. technology giant said fees on in-app purchases and paid transactions will fall to 25% from 30% starting Sunday.
Developers participating in Apple’s small business and mini-apps partner programmes will see their fees reduced to 12% from 15%.
Mini apps refer to smaller applications that run inside larger platforms such as Tencent’s WeChat.
Boost For Chinese Developers
The decision is expected to benefit Chinese technology companies and developers who operate large “super apps”, including platforms owned by Tencent and ByteDance, which host thousands of smaller applications built by third-party developers.
State-owned media estimated the move could save Chinese developers more than 6 billion yuan ($873 million) in annual operating costs.
Officials also suggested the reduction could lead to lower prices for digital services such as subscriptions, game purchases and live-streaming tips.
Global Pressure On ‘Apple Tax’
Apple’s commission structure often called the “Apple Tax” has faced increasing scrutiny from regulators around the world.
In the European Union, new legislation introduced in 2024 forced the company to lower commissions to between 10% and 17% for developers.
In the United States, Apple has also allowed developers to offer alternative payment options for in-app purchases.
Analysts say discussions with Chinese regulators may also have played a role in the latest fee reduction.
Regulatory Attention In China
China’s antitrust authorities have been reviewing Apple’s policies and App Store fee structure, while consumer complaints have also raised concerns about the platform’s pricing rules.
The fee cut comes ahead of World Consumer Rights Day, when Chinese state media often highlight cases involving consumer protection.
Experts say the change may also pave the way for further regulatory oversight of foreign technology companies operating in China.
(with inputs from Reuters)