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In a move reflecting adherence to regulatory directives, Apple has delisted WhatsApp and Threads from its app store in China. The decision, following orders from the Cyberspace Administration of China citing national security concerns, underscores Apple's commitment to compliance with local laws.

An Apple spokesperson reiterated the company's obligation to adhere to regulatory frameworks in all regions of operation, acknowledging the authority's directive as the basis for the removal. Notably, these apps, both owned by Meta, were already inaccessible in China and utilized via virtual private networks (VPNs) by a limited user base.

Duncan Clark, Chairman of BDA China, noted the widening gap between tech ecosystems within and outside China. The removal, while affecting a small user base, presents inconvenience to individuals and businesses reliant on these platforms for international communication.

Although popular Western social media apps like Facebook and Instagram remain accessible, Apple's decision coincides with a period of declining iPhone sales in China. Market research indicates a 10 percent drop in sales in the first quarter of this year, attributed to economic challenges, nationalist sentiments, and heightened competition.

Amidst these shifts, Apple has been diversifying its supply chain beyond China. The decision to procure more components from Vietnam underscores a broader trend among tech firms seeking to reduce costs and explore new markets. Apple CEO Tim Cook's meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reaffirmed the company's commitment to expanding its presence in Vietnam.

Since 2019, Apple has invested nearly USD 16 billion in Vietnam's supply chain, generating over 200,000 jobs. Cook expressed readiness to deepen cooperation and investment in Vietnam, emphasizing the country's emergence as a viable manufacturing alternative amidst strained China-West relations.

The move signals a strategic shift in global tech supply chains, with fast-growing economies like India and Vietnam gaining prominence. As Apple navigates evolving regulatory landscapes and market dynamics, its actions reflect a broader trend reshaping the tech industry's geopolitical landscape.