Apple's chairman met with China's vice premier in Beijing on October 12, state media outlet Xinhua reported. Such meetings are often viewed as a channel for signaling in U.S.-China relations, showing that commercial ties are being maintained despite broader political tensions.
The discussions could help stabilize relations in a crucial market for Apple, which relies heavily on China for manufacturing and consumer sales. The meetings are often more symbolic than catalytic, and immediate market reactions depend on the substance and tone of official readouts.
The meeting comes amid reports of softer demand for the latest iPhones and ahead of an expected launch of new smart home devices.