Chinese authorities launch investigation into Foxconn, the manufacturer of iPhones

China has initiated an investigation into Foxconn, a Taiwanese company that manufactures iPhones, according to reports from Chinese state media. The investigation involves tax inspections conducted at Foxconn facilities in two Chinese provinces. Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd, is the largest producer of iPhones and is globally recognized as one of the largest employers. The Chinese authorities are also said to have conducted on-site investigations into land use by key Foxconn businesses in the provinces of Henan and Hubei. Foxconn has expressed its cooperation with the investigation, emphasizing that compliance with local laws is a core principle for the company. It is worth noting that Foxconn's founder, Terry Gou, is currently running as an independent candidate in Taiwan's upcoming presidential election. The election is expected to have a significant impact on the relationship between Taiwan and China, which has become increasingly tense in recent times. Gou, who has extensive experience working in China, presents himself as an alternative to the incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which is viewed as unfavorable towards Beijing. Despite speculation linking the investigation to Gou's candidacy, Chinese experts claim that it is a routine and legitimate tax inspection. The experts also suggest that the investigation could influence the election outcome, warning of potential consequences if pro-independence candidates were to win. Beijing maintains that countries cannot have official relations with both China and Taiwan, with the US being Taiwan's most important ally despite its diplomatic relations with China.