Tim Cook visits Hanoi, boosts Apple spending on Vietnamese suppliers

Apple CEO Tim Cook visited Hanoi this week, aiming to solidify Vietnam's role in the company's supply chain. During his two-day visit, Cook pledged to increase spending on Vietnamese suppliers, though specific figures and allocation plans remain undisclosed.

Cook's trip coincides with the Biden administration's efforts to lessen America's dependence on China for tech manufacturing. Reports suggest Cook will meet with Vietnamese programmers, content creators, and students, potentially fostering future collaborations.

Apple's investment in Vietnam goes beyond manufacturing. The company claims to have invested nearly $16 billion through local suppliers since 2019, with annual spending in the country doubling over the same period. In a statement, Cook emphasized Apple's commitment to "strengthening connections in Vietnam" through partnerships with local suppliers, funding clean water projects, and supporting educational opportunities.

While Apple has been successfully expanding manufacturing in Vietnam, with suppliers building new facilities there, it has not been without problems. In June 2023, Apple suppliers including Foxconn were asked to reduce their electricity use as power cuts loomed.