The U.S. International Trade Commission issued the ban earlier this year, giving the Biden administration 60 days to review the ruling. In response, Apple is temporarily pausing watch sales while it takes necessary steps to address the situation. The sales halt will include both the Apple Watch Series 9 and the Apple Watch Ultra 2.
In a statement provided to 9to5Mac, a prominent Apple news website, the company expressed its strong disagreement with the import ban, emphasizing its dedication to creating innovative products with industry-leading health, wellness, and safety features. Apple also stated that it is actively exploring various legal and technical options to ensure continued availability of the Apple Watch for its customers.
According to Visible Alpha, a financial research firm, Apple reported sales of $39.8 billion in its Wearables, Home, and Accessories segment for the latest fiscal year. Notably, Apple Watch sales accounted for $19.6 billion of that total.
As of Monday, Apple’s stock had experienced a 1.2% decrease, closing at $195.20. Despite this recent dip, the company’s stock has seen a remarkable 50% increase throughout the year.