A Manhattan Apple Store. [CFP]

Apple Inc's release of its Supplier Responsibility 2012 Progress Report saw the company's first-ever publication of its list of global suppliers. The report also exposed misconduct related to working hours and overtime payments at Apple's suppliers' plants.

The move follows increasing criticism of Apple's ineffective policing of conditions at its suppliers' plants. However, the Cupertino, California-based IT giant did not explain its decision to make public its list of suppliers this year.

In the report, Apple Inc elaborated on its efforts in strengthening the supervision of its suppliers to ensure their proper operation.

In 2010, the Shenzhen factory of Apple supplier Focxonn saw a spate of staff suicides, sparking a public outcry over the poor working conditions provided by the contract manufacturer.

China's business press carried the story above on Monday.