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Article: Apple reduces App Store commissions in China in move applauded by Tencent, NetEase

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Apple has reduced the commission fees it charges developers on its China App Store, cutting the standard rate for in-app purchases and paid apps from 30% to 25%. The rate for subscription renewals and for qualified small developers will also drop, from 15% to 12%.

The changes take effect on March 15, which is World Consumer Rights Day in China. This timing coincides with a major state media program that often criticizes companies for unfair consumer practices.

Major Chinese gaming firms Tencent and NetEase have applauded the move, with NetEase stating it has long-term constructive significance for China's mobile app ecosystem.

The main topics covered are Apple's business policy change, its strategic timing, and the positive reaction from key Chinese tech companies.

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https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3346470/apple-reduces-app-store-commissions-china-move-applauded-tencent-netease?utm_source=rss_feed

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Tech - South China Morning Post

Published Date

2026-03-13 07:02

Fetched Date

2026-03-13 04:30

Processed Date

2026-03-13 04:31

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Raw Extracted Content

Apple reduces App Store commissions in China in move applauded by Tencent, NetEase
Move has ‘long-term constructive significance for the overall prosperity of China’s mobile app ecosystem’, gaming company NetEase says
Apple announced a reduction in the App Store commissions it charges developers in China ahead of the annual World Consumer Rights Day, drawing approval from the country’s biggest gaming companies Tencent Holdings and NetEase.
The US tech company said it would reduce the commission for standard in-app purchases and paid app transactions on iPhone and iPad to 25 per cent, from the current 30 per cent, according to a statement on its website on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the commission rate for subscription renewals, as well as the commission rate paid by qualified developers in its Small Business and Mini Apps Partner programmes, would drop to 12 per cent from 15 per cent, it said.
The new commissions take effect on World Consumer Rights Day on Sunday and the airing of a programme from state-run broadcaster China Central Television that is known for naming and shaming companies that have ignored consumer needs.
The event typically exposes companies involved in fraud, counterfeit goods or unfair practices, often triggering investigations and penalties from regulators.
“We strive for iOS and iPadOS to be the best app ecosystem and a great business opportunity for developers in China,” Apple said.