Apple to Cut App Store Developer Fees in China Starting March 15

Apple will begin to lower its cut taken from developers on the App Store in China, starting this month. As of March 15, Apple is reducing its rates for standard in-app purchases (IAPs) from 30 percent down to 25 percent.

In a Developer blog post, Apple states that the commission rates for Chinese developers will be reduced as a result of “discussions with the Chinese regulator.” The changes will be reflective across standardized app developers and game developers within China, as well as the App Store Small Business Program and Mini Apps Partner Program. Those under these programs will see slightly altered rates, down to 12 percent from 15 percent.

Given that conversations were held with the Chinese regulator, it’s likely that Apple is making these changes as a result of mounting pressure. As first reported by Bloomberg, China’s antitrust body, the State Administration for Market Regulation, was investigating Apple’s app fees within the market.

China isn’t the only region that is seeing Apple reel back its cuts from developers. Recently, Japan also saw Apple lower its rates to 21 percent. Once again, regulatory pressure demanded that Apple reduce its take from third-party in-app purchases made within the App Store.

According to Apple, developers are not required to sign its updated terms by March 15 “to receive the benefit of these commission rate changes starting that date.”

“We strive for iOS and iPadOS to be the best app ecosystem and a great business opportunity for developers in China, the company says in its blog post. “We are committed to terms that remain fair and transparent to all developers, and to always offering competitive App Store rates to developers distributing apps in China that are no higher than overall rates in other markets.”