On Thursday, former President Donald Trump expressed his concerns to Apple CEO Tim Cook regarding the company’s plans to expand production in India. Trump criticized Apple’s strategy of diversifying away from China, where approximately 90% of iPhones are currently assembled. During their conversation, Trump emphasized that he values Cook’s relationship with the U.S. but wants Apple to prioritize domestic manufacturing. He referred to a significant $500 billion investment Apple pledged to make in the U.S. earlier this year and stated, “I don’t want you building in India.”
Apple aims to produce about 25% of its iPhones in India as part of its efforts to lessen its dependency on Chinese production. Trump urged Cook to focus on manufacturing in the U.S., citing the need for American jobs and economic growth. He claimed that India’s economy can handle its own production, reiterating his desire to see Apple increase its manufacturing footprint in the U.S.
Furthermore, Trump discussed broader trade relations with India, pointing out that it has high tariffs and has offered to charge no tariffs for U.S. imports. Under his administration’s trade policies, Trump imposed a reciprocal tariff of 26% on Indian goods, although this has been temporarily reduced.
Meanwhile, Apple has been establishing its supply chain beyond China, with intentions to further invest in countries like Vietnam and India. Experts note that moving iPhone production to the U.S. is unlikely due to the potential significant rise in product prices, which could range from $1,500 to $3,500 if manufactured domestically. Currently, Apple has limited production in the U.S., mainly focusing on the Mac Pro and an upcoming facility for artificial intelligence servers in Texas.
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