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Apple reduces App Store fees in China to ward off regulators

The Verge / 3/13/2026

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Key Points

  • Apple is reducing its App Store commission in China from 30% to 25% for most purchases, and cutting the small-business rate from 15% to 12% for mini apps, effective March 15.
  • The move follows discussions with Chinese regulators and is seen as an effort to head off a potential formal probe into App Store fees and policies.
  • The changes apply to the App Store on iOS and iPadOS, affecting developers and monetization in the Chinese market.
  • This adjustment reflects Apple’s regulatory-facing strategy in China and could influence app competition and economics there.
A stock illustration of Apple’s logo.

Apple is cutting App Store developer fees in China from March 15th, dropping its typical commission on purchases from 30 percent down to 25 percent. The decision was made following "discussions with the Chinese regulator," according to Apple's announcement, suggesting that the reduction aims to avoid regulatory intervention after China reportedly considered opening a formal investigation into the iPhone maker's App Store fees and policies in early February.

The fee updates will apply to the App Store on both iOS and iPadOS. The commission rate for small businesses and mini app developers will also fall from 15 percent to 12 percent. This is …

Read the full story at The Verge.