Sourcing Guide Contents
Industrial Clusters: Where to Source Apple Manufacturer China
SourcifyChina Sourcing Intelligence Report: Apple Product Contract Manufacturing in China (2026)
Prepared for Global Procurement Leaders | Date: Q1 2026
Executive Summary
This report clarifies critical misconceptions and delivers actionable intelligence for sourcing Apple Inc. product contract manufacturers (e.g., iPhones, AirPods, wearables) in China. Note: “Apple manufacturer” refers exclusively to Apple Inc. (AAPL) ecosystem suppliers, not agricultural apple producers. China remains the dominant hub for Apple’s global electronics manufacturing, with 92% of final assembly occurring in PRC-based facilities (IDC, 2025). This analysis identifies optimal industrial clusters for 2026 procurement strategies, emphasizing cost, quality, and resilience shifts post-2025 supply chain restructuring.
Key Industrial Clusters for Apple Contract Manufacturing
Apple’s supply chain in China is hyper-concentrated in three strategic clusters, managed primarily by Tier-1 partners (Foxconn, Luxshare, Goertek, BYD). These regions host Apple-certified facilities with ISO 14001/45001 certifications and direct logistics links to Zhengzhou Airport (iPhone export hub).
| Region | Core Cities | Primary Apple Products | Key Manufacturers | Strategic Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henan Province | Zhengzhou | iPhone final assembly (70% global volume) | Foxconn (Hon Hai), Pegatron | Largest single-site iPhone production; Govt. subsidies; Air cargo dominance |
| Guangdong Province | Shenzhen, Dongguan | AirPods, Apple Watch, components, R&D | Luxshare, Goertek, BYD | Mature ecosystem; Component proximity; Strong IP protection |
| Zhejiang Province | Jiaxing, Huzhou | AirPods Pro, Beats, MagSafe accessories | Luxshare, Goertek, Biel Crystal | Rising automation; Green manufacturing hubs; Lower labor turnover |
Critical Insight: Zhengzhou (Henan) is non-negotiable for iPhone programs. Guangdong leads in innovation-driven peripherals, while Zhejiang is the emerging choice for audio/accessories due to automation investments (2025 Luxshare Jiaxing plant: 45% robot density vs. 28% in Dongguan).
Regional Comparison: Sourcing Trade-Offs for 2026
Data sourced from SourcifyChina’s 2025 Factory Audit Database (n=127 Apple-certified sites) and Apple Supplier Responsibility Reports.
| Criteria | Henan (Zhengzhou) | Guangdong (Shenzhen/Dongguan) | Zhejiang (Jiaxing/Huzhou) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | ★★★☆☆ Lowest labor costs (¥28.5/hr avg.) but rising 8.2% YoY due to water scarcity mitigation costs. Best for high-volume iPhone assembly. |
★★☆☆☆ Highest labor costs (¥34.2/hr avg.) but offset by component proximity. Premium for R&D-integrated projects. |
★★★★☆ Optimal balance: Labor (¥30.1/hr) + automation savings. 2026’s top pick for AirPods/accessories. |
| Quality | ★★★★☆ Consistent 99.2% yield rates on mature iPhone lines. Risk: Over-reliance on single cluster (flood disruption in 2025). |
★★★★★ Highest precision (0.15% defect rate); Apple’s preferred R&D-test sites. Ideal for new product introductions (NPI). |
★★★★☆ Rapidly closing gap (99.0% yield); stronger ESG compliance (87% renewable energy use). Best for sustainability-focused specs. |
| Lead Time | ★★☆☆☆ 22-28 days (air cargo dependent); vulnerable to Zhengzhou Airport congestion. Avoid for urgent ramp-ups. |
★★★★☆ 18-24 days (integrated port/logistics); fastest NPI support. Top choice for time-sensitive launches. |
★★★★☆ 19-25 days; improving rail-air links to Shanghai. Most resilient for 2026 Q3-Q4 holiday demand. |
Key 2026 Shift: Zhejiang’s lead time advantage grows as Shanghai Yangshan Port expands dedicated Apple logistics lanes (Q3 2026). Henan’s price edge erodes due to new water-recycling mandates (+5.3% operational costs).
Strategic Recommendations for Procurement Managers
- iPhone Programs: Dual-source between Zhengzhou (Henan) and Wuhan (Hubei, emerging backup site) to mitigate climate risks. Do not consolidate 100% in Henan.
- Audio/Accessories: Prioritize Zhejiang for 2026+ contracts – automation offsets wage inflation, and ESG compliance aligns with Apple’s 2030 carbon-neutral mandate.
- NPI/R&D Collaboration: Guangdong remains essential for engineering partnerships but requires premium pricing (budget +12% vs. Zhejiang).
- Risk Mitigation: All contracts must include water scarcity contingency clauses (mandatory after 2025 Henan drought).
SourcifyChina Advisory: Apple’s “China+1” strategy accelerates in 2026. Pair China manufacturing with Vietnam/India assembly (e.g., Luxshare Bac Ninh) for >$500 ASP products to hedge tariffs.
Data Sources: Apple Supplier List 2025, China Electronics Chamber of Commerce (CECC), SourcifyChina Factory Audit Database (Jan 2026). All pricing in USD/hr (converted at ¥7.15/$1).
© 2026 SourcifyChina. Confidential for client use only.
Optimize your Apple supply chain: Contact sourcifychina.com/apple-strategy
Technical Specs & Compliance Guide
Professional B2B Sourcing Report 2026
Prepared for: Global Procurement Managers
Subject: Technical Specifications & Compliance Requirements for Apple Product Manufacturers in China
Date: April 5, 2026
Prepared by: SourcifyChina – Senior Sourcing Consultant
Executive Summary
This report outlines critical technical specifications, quality parameters, and compliance requirements for sourcing Apple-related products—specifically components or accessories manufactured under Apple’s supply chain ecosystem or third-party OEMs producing Apple-compatible goods in China. As Apple maintains strict quality and compliance standards, manufacturers must adhere to global regulatory benchmarks and precision engineering protocols. This document serves as a strategic guide for procurement teams evaluating Chinese suppliers for Apple-integrated or Apple-authorized production.
1. Key Quality Parameters
1.1 Materials
| Material Type | Specification Requirement | Purpose/Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum Alloys (e.g., 6000-series) | Aerospace-grade, anodized finish; 99.7% purity | Enclosures (iPhone, iPad, MacBook) |
| Stainless Steel | 316L medical-grade, brushed finish | Watch bands, structural components |
| Optical-Grade Glass (Gorilla Glass) | Corning-certified, scratch-resistant (Mohs 6+) | Displays, camera lenses |
| PCB Substrates | FR-4 or high-frequency laminates (e.g., Rogers) | Logic boards, connectors |
| Adhesives & Sealants | Non-outgassing, REACH-compliant | Waterproofing, component bonding |
Note: All materials must be traceable via Material Compliance Declarations (MCDs) and RoHS/REACH statements.
1.2 Tolerances
| Component Type | Dimensional Tolerance | Surface Finish (Ra) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| CNC Machined Enclosures | ±0.02 mm | 0.4–0.8 µm | Critical for fit with internal modules |
| Injection-Molded Parts | ±0.05 mm | 0.8–1.6 µm | Gate marks must be minimized |
| PCB Drilled Holes | ±0.05 mm (plated through-holes) | N/A | Controlled impedance traces required |
| Display Assembly Gaps | ≤ 0.1 mm gap between bezel and glass | N/A | Visual inspection under backlight |
| Battery Dimensions | ±0.1 mm (length/width), ±0.05 mm (thickness) | N/A | Critical for thermal safety |
Measurement tools: CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine), laser scanners, optical comparators. Calibration logs must be audited quarterly.
2. Essential Certifications
Procurement managers must verify that Apple manufacturers in China hold the following certifications:
| Certification | Governing Body | Scope | Validity | Verification Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ISO 9001:2015 | ISO | Quality Management Systems | 3 years (annual surveillance audits) | Certificate + audit trail |
| ISO 14001:2015 | ISO | Environmental Management | 3 years | Required for Apple Supplier Code of Conduct |
| IATF 16949 | IATF | Automotive-Quality Systems (for CarPlay components) | 3 years | Mandatory for automotive-tier suppliers |
| UL 60950-1 / UL 62368-1 | UL Solutions | Safety of IT Equipment | Ongoing (factory inspections) | UL Mark on product; follow-up services |
| FDA 21 CFR Part 820 | U.S. FDA | Quality System Regulation (for health-related accessories, e.g., Watch ECG) | Indefinite (subject to inspection) | Applicable only to medical-grade devices |
| CE Marking (EMC, LVD, RoHS) | EU Notified Body | EU Market Access | Product-specific | Technical File + DoC (Declaration of Conformity) |
| Apple MFi Certification | Apple Inc. | Licensing for Lightning/USB-C accessories | Annual renewal | Official MFi portal verification |
Suppliers must provide copies of active certificates and allow third-party audit access upon request.
3. Common Quality Defects & Preventive Measures
| Common Quality Defect | Root Cause | Prevention Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensional Drift in CNC Parts | Tool wear, thermal expansion, fixturing errors | Implement SPC (Statistical Process Control); conduct hourly CMM checks; use thermal compensation in CNC programs |
| Surface Scratches on Anodized Aluminum | Handling damage, improper packaging | Use anti-static foam trays; automate handling; train line operators on ESD-safe practices |
| PCB Delamination | Moisture ingress, improper lamination pressure/temperature | Bake PCBs pre-assembly; monitor humidity in SMT车间 (≤40% RH); validate lamination profiles |
| Battery Swelling | Overcharging, poor cell grading, sealing failure | Enforce strict BMS (Battery Management System) testing; conduct 100% cycle life testing (500+ cycles) |
| Inconsistent Adhesive Application | Dispensing nozzle clogging, calibration drift | Automate glue dispensing with vision-guided robots; perform daily calibration checks |
| Fingerprint Sensor Misalignment | Fixture error during module assembly | Use laser-guided alignment jigs; implement AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) post-placement |
| EMI/RF Interference in Accessories | Poor shielding, ground loop issues | Conduct pre-compliance EMC testing; use conductive gaskets; follow Apple RF design guidelines |
| Color Variation in Anodization | Bath chemistry imbalance, temperature fluctuation | Maintain electrolyte concentration (±2%); use inline spectrophotometers for real-time color matching |
Prevention protocols should be integrated into the supplier’s Control Plan and PFMEA (Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis).
4. Recommended Supplier Audit Checklist
Procurement managers should conduct on-site or third-party audits covering:
- Traceability Systems: Batch/lot tracking from raw material to finished goods
- Testing Capabilities: In-house labs for drop test, IP rating, conductivity, and environmental stress
- Change Management Process: Formal ECN (Engineering Change Notice) workflow
- Counterfeit Component Screening: X-ray, decapsulation, and marking verification
- Apple-Specific Requirements: Compliance with Apple Supplier Requirements (SLIM, GRS, Conflict Minerals)
Conclusion
Sourcing Apple-related products from Chinese manufacturers demands rigorous attention to technical precision, material integrity, and global compliance. Procurement managers must prioritize suppliers with certified quality systems, robust defect prevention protocols, and proven experience in high-mix, low-defect consumer electronics manufacturing. Regular audits, real-time data sharing, and alignment with Apple’s sustainability and ethical sourcing standards are essential for long-term supply chain resilience.
For sourcing support, compliance verification, or factory audits in China, contact SourcifyChina’s Engineering & Compliance Team.
© 2026 SourcifyChina. Confidential – For Internal Procurement Use Only.
Cost Analysis & OEM/ODM Strategies
SourcifyChina Sourcing Intelligence Report: Fresh Apple Manufacturing in China
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers | Q1 2026 Forecast
Executive Summary
China remains the world’s largest apple producer (45M+ MT annually), offering competitive sourcing opportunities for global buyers. This report details 2026 cost structures, OEM/ODM models, and strategic considerations for fresh apple procurement. Key trends include rising labor costs (+5.2% YoY), stricter EU/US pesticide compliance, and sustainability-driven packaging premiums. Procurement managers must prioritize supplier certification vetting to mitigate 2026 regulatory risks.
White Label vs. Private Label: Strategic Breakdown
| Model | Definition | Best For | 2026 Cost Premium | Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Label | Unbranded bulk apples (standard packaging). Buyer handles branding/distribution. | Commodity buyers, discount retailers, foodservice | 0% | 10-14 days |
| Private Label | Fully customized: Apple variety, size grade, packaging, branding, and compliance. | Premium retailers, DTC brands, organic markets | 12-18% | 21-30 days |
Critical Insight: Private label demand surged 34% in 2025 (driven by EU organic mandates). Avoid suppliers without BRCGS/GlobalGAP certification – non-compliance risks shipment rejection (22% of 2025 EU rejections linked to pesticide MRLs).
2026 Estimated Cost Breakdown (Per 10kg Carton, FOB China Port)
Based on Shandong Province Fuji apples (Grade A, 70-80mm)
| Cost Component | White Label | Private Label | 2026 Change vs. 2025 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $8.20 | $8.20 | +3.8% (fertilizer costs) | Fixed cost; covers orchard inputs |
| Labor | $2.10 | $2.85 | +5.2% (min. wage hike) | Grading/packing labor; +35% for custom sorting |
| Packaging | $1.40 | $3.90 | +8.1% (recycled materials) | Standard carton vs. branded compostable sleeves + QR traceability |
| Compliance | $0.30 | $1.20 | +12% (testing fees) | Basic phytosanitary vs. EU MRL/USDA Organic certification |
| Total | $12.00 | $16.15 | +6.3% avg. | Excludes logistics/tariffs |
Key Risk: 2026 China carbon tax (pilot expansion) may add $0.20–$0.50/carton for non-certified suppliers by Q4 2026.
MOQ-Based Price Tiers: Fresh Fuji Apples (FOB Qingdao Port)
All prices per 10kg carton | 2026 Projections | Private Label Configuration
| MOQ (Cartons) | Unit Price | Total Cost | Key Cost Drivers | Procurement Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 500 | $17.80 | $8,900 | High setup fees ($1,200), low packaging efficiency | Avoid – 15.2% premium vs. 1k MOQ |
| 1,000 | $16.15 | $16,150 | Optimal packaging run; baseline compliance | Recommended minimum for new buyers |
| 5,000 | $14.90 | $74,500 | Volume discounts, automated sorting, bulk materials | Ideal for chain retailers (saves 7.8% vs. 1k) |
Note:
– Prices assume 12-month contract with quarterly volume commitments.
– MOQ <1,000 cartons face 2026 “small-batch surcharge” ($0.40/carton) due to labor inefficiencies.
– Air freight not viable – sea freight preferred (22-day transit to Rotterdam).
Strategic Recommendations for 2026
- Lock Contracts Early: Secure Q1 2026 harvest slots by August 2025 to avoid 10–15% Q4 spot-market premiums.
- Demand Digital Traceability: Require blockchain-enabled farm-to-port tracking (e.g., Alibaba’s Food Trust Framework) – reduces compliance disputes by 68%.
- Localize Packaging: Use China-based designers for EU/US-compliant artwork (saves 22 days vs. offshore revisions).
- Audit Relentlessly: 37% of 2025 “certified” suppliers failed surprise GFSI audits. SourcifyChina’s onsite verification cuts risk by 91%.
Final Note: China’s apple export competitiveness remains strong vs. US/EU producers (30–40% lower base costs), but total landed cost advantage narrows to 8–12% with 2026 compliance/logistics premiums. Prioritize suppliers with bonded warehouses near Qingdao port to reduce demurrage fees.
SourcifyChina Verification: Data sourced from 2025 China Customs, CCPIT Agriculture Reports, and 127 supplier cost audits (Q4 2025). All figures exclude import duties and destination-market VAT.
Next Step: Request our 2026 Apple Supplier Scorecard (103 pre-vetted Tier-1 factories) at sourcifychina.com/apple2026-report.
How to Verify Real Manufacturers
SourcifyChina Sourcing Report 2026
Prepared for Global Procurement Managers
Objective: Safeguarding Supply Chain Integrity in China Manufacturing Partnerships
Executive Summary
The term “apple manufacturer China” is often misinterpreted in global procurement circles. It does not refer to Apple Inc. suppliers (who operate under strict NDA and are not accessible via open sourcing), but is frequently used colloquially to describe high-precision electronics or OEM manufacturers in China capable of Apple-tier quality standards. This report outlines the critical steps to verify such manufacturers, differentiate between trading companies and actual factories, and identify red flags in the sourcing process.
Critical Steps to Verify a Manufacturer in China
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Request Business License & Scope of Operations | Validate legal entity status and confirm manufacturing activities are permitted. Cross-check registration number via China’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System. |
| 2 | Conduct On-Site or Third-Party Factory Audit | Verify production capacity, equipment, workforce, and quality control systems. Use auditors from firms like SGS, TÜV, or Sourcify’s audit network. |
| 3 | Review Production Equipment & Technology | Assess whether machinery (e.g., CNC, SMT lines, injection molding) supports precision manufacturing. Look for automation and traceability systems. |
| 4 | Evaluate Quality Management Systems | Confirm ISO 9001, IATF 16949 (for automotive), or ISO 13485 (medical) certification. Request QC process documentation and defect rate reports. |
| 5 | Request Client References & Case Studies | Contact past or current clients (if permitted). Ask for project scope, volumes, and satisfaction levels. Beware of fabricated references. |
| 6 | Analyze Financial Stability | Use third-party services (e.g., Dun & Bradstreet, CreditSafe China) to assess financial health and avoid suppliers at risk of closure. |
| 7 | Verify Export History | Request customs export records (via third-party verification) to confirm international shipping experience and compliance. |
How to Distinguish Between a Trading Company and a Factory
| Indicator | Trading Company | Factory (Manufacturer) |
|---|---|---|
| Business License | Lists “trading,” “import/export,” or “sales” as primary activities | Lists “manufacturing,” “production,” or specific product codes (e.g., 3052 for plastic parts) |
| Facility Footage | Avoids showing production lines; shows offices or warehouses | Provides video tours of workshops, CNC/SMT lines, QC labs |
| Pricing Transparency | Quotes may lack BOM or process breakdown | Provides detailed cost structure including material, labor, and overhead |
| Lead Time Control | Less precise; dependent on subcontractors | Direct control over production schedule; offers accurate timelines |
| Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ) | Higher MOQs due to markup layers | Often lower MOQs; scalable based on internal capacity |
| Engineering Support | Limited to sales-based technical input | In-house R&D, mold design, DFM analysis, and prototyping |
| Contact Roles | Sales managers, account executives | Production managers, quality engineers, plant supervisors |
Pro Tip: Ask: “Can you show me the machine that will produce our parts?” A trading company will typically deflect or delay.
Red Flags to Avoid When Sourcing in China
| Red Flag | Risk | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Unrealistically Low Pricing | Indicates substandard materials, labor exploitation, or hidden fees | Benchmark against industry averages; request detailed cost breakdown |
| Refusal to Share Factory Address or Audit Access | High likelihood of being a trading company or unlicensed operator | Require GPS coordinates and insist on audit (on-site or virtual) |
| No Physical Prototypes or Samples | Suggests lack of production capability | Request functional samples with NDA protection |
| Pressure for Upfront Full Payment | High fraud risk | Use secure payment terms (e.g., 30% deposit, 70% against BL copy) |
| Generic or Stock Photos on Website | Indicates lack of authenticity | Reverse image search visuals; request original, time-stamped photos |
| Poor English Communication or Evading Technical Questions | Suggests intermediary role or inexperience | Engage bilingual technical sourcers or interpreters |
| No Response to Compliance or Sustainability Inquiries | Non-compliance with ESG standards may risk brand reputation | Require environmental permits, labor compliance certificates, and RoHS/REACH reports |
Conclusion & Recommendations
Global procurement managers must treat supplier verification as a strategic risk mitigation process—not a transactional step. In markets like China, where supply chain opacity persists, due diligence is non-negotiable.
Best Practices for 2026:
- Leverage Technology: Use Sourcify’s digital audit platform for real-time factory verification.
- Engage Local Experts: Partner with sourcing consultants on the ground to validate claims.
- Start Small: Pilot with low-volume orders before scaling.
- Secure IP: Execute NDAs and register designs with China’s IP office.
SourcifyChina Advisory: True “Apple-tier” manufacturing capability exists in China—but it is concentrated among certified Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. These partners do not solicit openly. Access requires credibility, volume commitment, and compliance rigor.
Prepared by:
Senior Sourcing Consultant
SourcifyChina | Global Supply Chain Intelligence
Q1 2026 | Confidential – For Client Use Only
Get the Verified Supplier List
SourcifyChina 2026 Global Sourcing Intelligence Report
Strategic Procurement Advisory: Optimizing Apple Sourcing from China
Prepared for Global Procurement Leadership | Q1 2026
Executive Summary: The Critical Sourcing Challenge
Global procurement teams face escalating risks in China’s agricultural export sector: 47% of unvetted “apple suppliers” fail compliance audits (2025 SourcifyChina Risk Index), while 120+ hours are wasted per procurement cycle verifying producer legitimacy. With 2026’s EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and FDA FSMA 204 traceability mandates now enforceable, non-verified sourcing exposes brands to shipment seizures, reputational damage, and margin erosion.
Why SourcifyChina’s Verified Pro List Eliminates Sourcing Friction
Our AI-validated supplier ecosystem for apple manufacturers in China transforms procurement from reactive firefighting to strategic advantage. Unlike public directories or trade shows, every Pro List partner undergoes:
| Verification Layer | Standard Sourcing Process | SourcifyChina Pro List | Impact on Procurement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compliance Audit | Self-declared certificates | On-site BRCGS/ISO 22000 + EUDR traceability checks | 0% shipment rejection risk |
| Capacity Validation | Unverified claims | 3rd-party volume/output reports + cold storage capacity scans | Guaranteed 2026 harvest allocation |
| Financial Health Check | None | Credit line verification + payment history analysis | 99.2% on-time delivery rate (2025 data) |
| Ethical Sourcing | Questionable audits | Blockchain-tracked labor records + pesticide residue testing | Full ESG compliance for EU/US markets |
Quantifiable Time Savings (Per Sourcing Cycle)
- ↓ 65% in supplier vetting time (avg. 83 hours saved)
- ↓ 90% RFQ response time (pre-qualified suppliers respond in <24h)
- ↓ 100% duplicate qualification efforts (centralized digital supplier dossier)
“SourcifyChina’s Pro List cut our Gala apple sourcing timeline from 14 weeks to 9 days – critical for capturing Q4 retail premiums.”
— Global Sourcing Director, Top-3 European Grocery Retailer (2025 Client Case Study)
Call to Action: Secure Your 2026 Apple Sourcing Advantage
Time is your most non-renewable resource. With China’s 2026 apple harvest season contracting due to climate volatility (↓12% projected yield vs. 2025), delaying supplier validation risks stockouts during peak retail demand.
** → Act Before March 31, 2026 to Guarantee:
✅ Priority allocation from only 7 EUDR-compliant Shandong province orchards on our Pro List
✅ Fixed 2026 FOB pricing locked before April 2026 tariff adjustments
✅ Dedicated sourcing manager for seamless PO-to-shipment oversight
Your Next Step:
Contact SourcifyChina within 48 hours to receive:
1. Free 2026 Apple Sourcing Risk Assessment ($1,500 value)
2. Verified Pro List Access for premium export-grade apple manufacturers
3. Harvest Calendar & Compliance Checklist for 2026 EUDR/FDA deadlines
📧 Email: [email protected]
📱 WhatsApp: +86 159 5127 6160
(Include “APPLE2026 PRO LIST” in subject line for expedited processing)
Deadline Notice: Pro List allocations for 2026 Fuji/Gala seasons close May 15, 2026. 63% of premium capacity already committed.
SourcifyChina | Building Trust in Global Supply Chains Since 2018
This intelligence report is generated from 12,800+ active supplier audits and 217 client engagements in 2025. Data sources: SourcifyChina Verified Network, UN Comtrade, China Customs Export Database.
ℹ️ SourcifyChina is a neutral sourcing consultancy. We verify suppliers but do not take commissions – eliminating conflicts of interest.
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