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Nov 5, 08:46
Lessons from Vietnam: how Apple could strengthen its supply chain amidst struggling expansion in India
Amid the ongoing US-China conflict, the industry is focusing on Apple's efforts to shift its supply chain away from China to other regions. However, one of Apple's primary alternative destinations, India, is now facing challenges in its competitiveness compared to Vietnam. Vietnam offers a more favorable tariff structure and dedicated task forces to support investments, making it a more attractive option for companies looking to relocate their supply chains.
While Apple anticipates a slight slowdown in revenue growth for the fourth quarter, industry analysts are optimistic that the Single's Day e-commerce promotion, along with price cuts from various vendors, generative AI (GenAI) applications, and the traditional peak sales season, will collectively give smartphone sales a positive boost.
RichWave Technology reported a decline in revenue and gross margin. While Wi-Fi 7 is growing, the rapid decline of Wi-Fi 5 and price competition in the Chinese market are concerns. The company expects growth in mobile phone and networking equipment sectors, with Wi-Fi 7 playing a key role in future revenue and margin improvement.
Apple's latest financial report not only exceeded overall analyst expectations but also showcased robust sales performance for the iPhone 16, which has garnered significant attention from the public.
The focal point of discussion in China's smartphone market currently centers on Apple's iPhone 16 sales and the rapidly shifting rivalry between Apple and Huawei. IDC's latest data reveals smartphone shipments in China hit 68.78 million units in Q3 2024, up by 3.2%. Apple, however, saw a minor dip of 0.3%, while Huawei surged ahead with a 42% increase.
October 27 marked the second anniversary of Jae-yong Lee's tenure as Samsung Electronics' (Samsung) executive chairman. However, both Lee and Samsung are facing unprecedented challenges.
Top Chinese smartphone brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and Honor have strategically aligned their flagship launches with Apple's new product announcements, intensifying competition and further challenging Apple's sales prospects in Greater China.
Luxembourg-based satellite telecom operator OQ Technology is testing investor appetite for space-based Internet of Things (IoT) technology, seeking EUR 30 million in fresh funding as competition intensifies in the nascent market for satellite-enabled device connectivity.
Samsung Electronics (Samsung) has released its financial report for the third quarter of 2024, revealing a 14.5% year-over-year decline in operating profit for its Mobile Experience (MX) division. While revenue from new products such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables contributed to growth, rising costs and inflation have dampened demand recovery, leading to decreased profitability.
India achieved its highest-ever quarterly smartphone shipment value, driven by a premiumization trend that favored Samsung and Apple. MediaTek dominated the premium mobile AP market, expanding its lead over Qualcomm as major IC design houses entered a new wave of competition.
During Apple's earnings call on October 31, senior executives emphasized the company's commitment to quality, which has influenced the pace of the Apple Intelligence launch across regions. Additionally, favorable foreign exchange developments benefited Apple, helping the company maintain stable performance in China.
Apple's recent quarterly results met market expectations, though challenges in its China business and a significant profit decline signal potential headwinds ahead.