Shoppers in China are getting rare discounts on iPhones as Apple faces growing competition from local brands. The four-day promotion, which starts this Saturday (4 January), includes discounts of as much as 500 yuan ($68.50, £55.30) on some of the US technology giant's newest handsets. Chinese phone maker Huawei has also cut prices of its high-end mobile devices by as much as 20%. The discounts come as consumers in China remain hesitant about spending because of the country's economic challenges. The offer covers Apple's top models as well as older handsets and some other devices. The biggest discount of 500 yuan will apply to Apple's flagship iPhone 16 Pro, which has a starting price of 7,999 yuan, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max which currently costs 9,999 yuan. The discounts being offered by Apple and Huawei reflect a wider trend in China. From online retail giants to the country's car makers, deals are being offered in a bid to attract customers who have been reluctant to spend as the world's second largest economy slows. The Chinese government has also stepped up efforts to boost consumption. Last year, Beijing launched a trade-in programme to encourage consumers to replace old products such as cars and household appliances. Against this backdrop, Apple's share of the Chinese market has come under increasing pressure from local rivals, such as Vivo and Xiaomi.
BBQ - Why would Apple not offer a price promotion in other parts of the world?
