Apple could be facing an "informal boycott" from consumers in China
The iPhone XR and iPhone XS Max
With the US and China trade war showing no signs of drawing to a close, it’s claimed that the “spillover from politics” into smartphone sales is particularly high. This has seen local companies encourage consumers to stay away from foreign brands, a move which, according to the report, has led to what is being called an “informal boycott” of US products.
Fortunately for Apple, the Chinese economy is expected to pick up in early Spring – this could help improve sales – but it seems the US economy may continue to slow past this period. Thus, the benefits of improved performance in China may not be felt.
On a related note, surveys conducted have revealed that consumers in India are showing less interested in Apple’s products too. Here, it is market leaders Samsung and Xiaomi that are capturing the attention of consumers with lower prices and innovative features. As a direct result of this, it seems Apple requires a total strategy rethink in the region.
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