At the China Development Forum 2026, Apple CEO Tim Cook praised the ingenuity of Chinese developers and manufacturers, describing them as exemplary in driving new productive forces. On March 22, Cook highlighted that China's talented developer community consistently pushes the boundaries of innovation, creating tools that help individuals acquire skills, manage health, and generate new ideas. He emphasized that these contributions serve as a powerful engine for growth, fostering prosperity and opportunity nationwide.

Cook also noted that the same innovative spirit has profoundly transformed China's manufacturing sector. Companies that once relied on manual processes have evolved into some of the world's most advanced manufacturers, achieving remarkable progress in automation and smart manufacturing. This evolution has elevated efficiency and operational standards to unprecedented levels.