China’s tax authorities have launched investigations into Foxconn, the company responsible for manufacturing the iPhone, leading to concerns of political motivation. The probes follow the announcement of Foxconn’s founder, Terry Gou, running for Taiwan’s presidential election in 2024. Shortly after his bid, Gou resigned from Foxconn’s board.

Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Technology Group, is Apple’s largest supplier of iPhones and one of the world’s largest employers. The company is now facing tax audits in China, as well as investigations into land use in two Chinese provinces.

In response to the inquiries, Foxconn has stated its commitment to cooperating with the investigations and ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

The news of the investigations has had significant repercussions, leading to a decline in both Foxconn and Apple shares. This comes at a time of heightened tensions between China and the United States, with both countries implementing restrictions on the tech sector.

Moreover, China is facing an economic slowdown and struggles in its embattled property sector, with some companies at risk of defaulting on their debts. Taiwan’s independence remains a contentious issue, with China aiming to absorb the island nation into its territory despite resistance from Taiwan’s population and political parties.

Gou’s presidential bid emphasized the importance of peace in the Taiwan Strait and preventing Taiwan from experiencing a fate similar to Ukraine. He blamed President Tsai Ing-wen’s ruling party for escalating tensions.

These tax investigations into Foxconn highlight the complexities and interplay between political, economic, and territorial issues in the region. As China faces various challenges, Foxconn’s role as a major player in Apple’s supply chain makes it a significant subject for investigation.