【AAPL】Apple Reduces Commission Rate for Mainland China App Store; Tencent: Industry Boosted by Move; Baidu: Sends More Positive Development Signals for App Ecosystem

SocialAnxietyStaker · 2026-03-13T09:08:51+00:00

Apple reduces the commission rate on China's App Store, lowering it from 30% to 25%, while the commission rate for small businesses and mini-programs decreases from 15% to 12%. This adjustment responds to demands from developers and users, bringing positive impact to the industry. Tencent and Baidu have also indicated that this change will promote the development of the digital ecosystem. Apple emphasizes that it will provide fair and transparent terms while maintaining competitive rates.

SocialAnxietyStaker

2026-03-13 09:08:51

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Apple (U.S.: AAPL) reduces the “Apple Tax” and lowers the commission rate for the China App Store, decreasing the fees charged to Chinese app developers for software and in-app purchases. After communication with Chinese regulatory authorities, Apple will adjust the commission rates for iOS and iPadOS in the China mainland App Store starting March 15. The standard commission rate for Apple in-app purchases and paid apps will be reduced from 30% to 25%.

As for the commission rates under the Small Business Program and Mini Program Partner Program, as well as the automatic renewal subscription commission rate after the first year, they will be changed from 15% to 12%.

Tencent (00700) stated that, under the strong promotion of regulatory authorities, Apple’s adjustment of the China App Store commission policy has excited the industry. This change reflects a response to and respect for the voices of Chinese users and developers, and is a positive signal for the healthy development of the digital ecosystem. For Tencent and all developers, it will usher in a more open, win-win platform environment, conducive to stimulating innovation and promoting the continuous prosperity of the tech application ecosystem. Thanks to this, they will continue to work with partners to provide users with better products and services.

Baidu said that the adjustment not only responds to the long-term concerns of Chinese users and developers but also signals a more open and proactive development of the app ecosystem.

Apple stated that it will provide fair and transparent terms for all developers and will always offer competitive app store rates for developers distributing apps in China, which will not be higher than the overall rates in other markets.

Previously, Apple adjusted its commission structure in the EU region to appease regulators, and in the U.S., it allowed apps to direct users to web pages for in-app purchases, bypassing its payment system. Apple also made significant adjustments in response to Japanese regulatory requirements.

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