Apple(US:AAPL) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-12-23 01:40Core Viewpoint - Apple has significantly reduced its "Apple tax" in Japan from 30% to 21%, allowing third-party app stores and external payment channels, marking a shift in its previously strict policies [2] Group 1: Changes in Apple's Policies - Apple has lowered the commission rate for small developers and video partners in Japan from 15% to 10% as part of its new initiatives [2] - The company is now opening third-party app stores and external payment channels in Japan, a notable change in its approach to market competition [2] Group 2: Comparison with Other Markets - In the EU, the "Apple tax" for small developers has already been reduced to 10%, with rates for developers earning over $1 million dropping to 17%, which is lower than Japan's new rate [2] - The Chinese market remains a unique case where Apple maintains a 30% commission, despite declining sales and increasing operational costs [3][4] Group 3: Financial Implications - In 2024, the total "Apple tax" paid by Chinese users reached $6.44 billion, accounting for approximately 10% of Apple's revenue in China, compared to 8.8% in the US and 4.6% in Europe [4] - The Chinese market has become crucial for Apple, providing significant profits amidst global pressures to reduce fees and open ecosystems [4] Group 4: Regulatory Environment - Unlike Japan and the EU, China has not yet implemented legislation to force Apple to lower its fees or open its ecosystem, leading to a stable profit environment for the company [4][5] - The lack of collective bargaining power among developers in China has hindered efforts to challenge Apple's high commission rates [3]