If Apple refuses, they (CHINA) have the ability to CRUSH Apple (and any others they so choose to do this to, global markets and USD along with them) being it's manufacturing hub and #1 consumer market.
Ending the revenue stream, and immediately opening the door to Chinese 'versions' of well known brand products and IP
If Apple obliges, it sets a precedent for international 'citizen profit sharing'.
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/08/07/apple-china-us-trade-war-bargaining-chip.html
https://en.people.cn/n3/2018/0806/c90000-9488193.html