US tech giant Apple is to expand in China by moving into smaller cities.

Apple, which recently opened its fourth flagship store in mainland China in Shanghai, plans to open outlets beyond larger cities to reach out more customers.

China, where it achieved a sales increase of six per cent to $5.7 billion in the fourth quarter to September 28, is currently the company’s second largest market after the US.

To push growth in China, Apple is also starting to launch products in the nation simultaneously with other major markets.

“We’re working on both coverage, on launching earlier and execution and continuing to build on our retail practice there,” said CEO Tim Cook.

With its negotiation with wireless carrier China Mobile nearing completion, iPhone sales is expected to grow even faster.