Apple cuts China App Store commission fees after government pressure

Apple will reduce its App Store commission fees in mainland China, effective March 15, 2026, following pressure from Chinese regulators. The standard commission will decrease from 30% to 25%, while fees for small businesses and mini-apps will drop from 15% to 12%. This change is projected to save Chinese developers an estimated 6 billion yuan annually and potentially lower costs for consumers on digital goods and services. The move comes amid increasing global scrutiny of Apple's App Store commission structure, with similar reductions occurring in the EU and the US due to regulatory pressure and legal challenges. China's antitrust watchdog had been investigating Apple's App Store pricing since last year.

Ahead of World Consumer Rights Day, Apple announced a reduction in its App Store commissions for developers in China. The standard commission for in-app purchases and paid apps will decrease from 30% to 25%, while subscription renewals and commissions for developers in Small Business and Mini Apps Partner programs will drop from 15% to 12%. The new rates take effect on Sunday, coinciding with a consumer rights program known for exposing unfair business practices. Apple stated the change aims to improve the app ecosystem and business opportunities for developers in China. The move has been applauded by major Chinese gaming companies like Tencent and NetEase.