Apple Inc. is once again under scrutiny in China as a group of 55 iPhone and iPad users has filed an antitrust complaint with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). This collective action, led by attorney Wang Qiongfei, accuses Apple of monopolistic behaviors concerning its App Store operations within the country.
Allegations Against Apple
The complainants assert that Apple enforces a monopoly over iOS app distribution in China by:
1. Mandating Exclusive Use of In-App Purchases: Users are compelled to buy digital goods solely through Apple’s In-App Purchase system.
2. Restricting App Downloads: iOS applications can only be downloaded via the official App Store, limiting consumer choice.
3. Imposing High Commission Fees: Apple charges developers commissions of up to 30% on in-app purchases, which the complainants argue inflates prices for consumers.
These practices are alleged to violate China’s Anti-Monopoly Law by restricting market competition and consumer options.
Comparative Practices in Other Markets
The complaint highlights a perceived inconsistency in Apple’s policies. In regions like the European Union and the United States, Apple has faced regulatory pressures leading to changes in its App Store operations. For instance, in the EU, Apple revised its App Store rules and fee structures to comply with antitrust directives, allowing developers more flexibility in directing customers to external payment systems. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/apple-changes-app-store-rules-eu-comply-with-antitrust-order-2025-06-26/?utm_source=openai)) The complainants argue that Apple’s continued restrictive practices in China, despite these international adjustments, demonstrate a double standard.
Historical Context and Previous Legal Actions
This is not the first time Apple’s App Store practices have been challenged in China. In 2021, a similar lawsuit was filed by an individual consumer, represented by the same attorney, Wang Qiongfei. The case alleged that Apple’s 30% commission led to higher prices compared to Android platforms. However, the Shanghai Intellectual Property Court dismissed the lawsuit in 2024, stating that Apple’s fees were not significantly higher than those of competing app stores and that there was no direct evidence linking the fees to increased consumer prices. ([9to5mac.com](https://9to5mac.com/2021/10/05/apple-tax-antitrust-case-china/?utm_source=openai))
Undeterred, Wang has reinitiated the challenge, this time through an administrative complaint to SAMR, aiming for a more expedited resolution compared to the previous civil lawsuit. He is also appealing the 2024 dismissal to China’s Supreme People’s Court, with a ruling still pending.
Apple’s Position and Broader Implications
As of now, Apple has not publicly responded to the latest complaint. The company has previously defended its App Store policies, emphasizing the security and trustworthiness of its platform. Apple maintains that its commission structure is standard within the industry and reflects the value provided to developers and consumers.
This renewed legal action comes amid escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, with both nations implementing tariffs and technology restrictions. Chinese regulators have recently intensified scrutiny of American tech firms, including investigations into companies like Qualcomm. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/china-consumers-file-antitrust-complaint-against-apple-over-app-store-practices-2025-10-20/?utm_source=openai))
Potential Outcomes and Industry Impact
If SAMR decides to investigate and subsequently rules against Apple, the company could be compelled to alter its App Store practices in China. This might include allowing alternative payment methods, reducing commission fees, or permitting third-party app stores on iOS devices. Such changes could significantly impact Apple’s revenue model and set a precedent for other markets.
Moreover, a ruling against Apple could embolden other tech companies and developers to challenge similar practices, potentially leading to a broader reevaluation of app store operations and digital marketplace regulations globally.
Conclusion
Apple’s App Store policies are once again under legal scrutiny in China, with allegations of monopolistic practices and unfair restrictions on app distribution and payments. The outcome of this complaint could have far-reaching implications for Apple’s business operations in China and may influence global discussions on digital marketplace regulations and antitrust laws.
