Donald Trump 's administration is planning to invite Apple CEO Tim Cook and other CEOs from companies including Nvidia, Qualcomm, Exxon, and Boeing on a trip to China next week (according to Semafor). Trump appears to be focused on building his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the meetings on May 14 and 15.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue are the ones who suggested Trump invite the CEOs of major technology companies. It would be the first visit by a U.S. president to China since Trump's own visit in 2017.
See also: Apple reduces RAM options for Mac Studio and Mac Mini
Apple CEO Tim Cook is set to step down on September 1, 2026, with hardware chief John Ternustaking over as the new CEO. Cook will remain at Apple as executive chairman and will “help with certain aspects of the company, including working with policymakers around the world.” Cook recently said he intends to stay on as executive chairman “for a long time,” and Apple will remain his top priority.
Donald Trump – Tim Cook relations
Two weeks ago, Trump said he had “always been a big fan” of Cook and has boasted about the relationship Cook has built with him.
Cook has worked during two Trump presidencies and has tried to maintain a positive relationship to the benefit of Apple. The CEO donated $1 million to Trump's 2025 inaugural fund and marked $600 billion investment in the United States with a glass and 24-karat gold plaque he presented to Trump.
See also: Apple Manufacturing Academy helps businesses embrace AI
With Cook taking on an expanded role in working with Trump and other political figures worldwide, incoming CEO John Ternus will be able to spend more time focusing on Apple.
Travel to China
The upcoming visit to China and the participation of top executives from American industry highlight the decisive role that large technology companies now play in shaping international economic and political balances. For Apple, Tim Cook's presence at this juncture is particularly important, as it coincides with a period of administrative transition and redefining the company's strategy in the face of geopolitical challenges.
See also: Apple blocks Chinese trademark in Europe
Meanwhile, John Ternus's takeover of the company marks a new era for Apple, with Cook remaining active in a more advisory and diplomatic role. How this transition unfolds, as well as the company's relationship with the US political leadership and the Chinese market, is expected to significantly impact not only Apple's future, but also its place in the global technology landscape in the years to come.
