Shenzhen, a major Chinese technology hub, is cracking down on illicit electronics markets ahead of hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. The campaign aims to clean up the city’s image before international leaders arrive, with police and regulators stepping up enforcement in commercial districts known for grey-market trade. [2, 3]
Authorities are targeting smuggled computer chips, counterfeit goods and stolen iPhones. Traders in the Huaqiangbei electronics district report a sharp rise in arrests, prompting many vendors to suspend business. [2]
New restrictions have halted sales of overseas-sourced phones in markets identified as hubs for iPhones stolen from the U.S. and Europe. Many stalls are now empty, disrupting unofficial trade networks. [2]