China has imposed a ban on the use of Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) iPhones and other foreign-branded devices by officials at central government agencies for work purposes or within the office, according to WSJ.
This directive, which has been conveyed to employees through workplace chat groups and meetings, is part of Beijing's broader efforts to reduce reliance on foreign technology, enhance cybersecurity, and prevent sensitive information from leaving the country.
The move could have notable implications for foreign brands operating in China, particularly Apple. China accounts for 19% of Apple’s total revenue.
This ban expands on previous restrictions in which some government agencies in China had already prohibited the use of iPhones for official purposes.
Apple shares are down nearly 1% in premarket Wednesday.