Apple CEO Tim Cook has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to manufacturing in India despite pressure from Donald Trump to shift production back to the United States. Trump recently warned Apple that iPhones sold in the U.S. should be manufactured domestically, threatening a 25% tariff on devices made in India or elsewhere. However, Cook has assured the Indian government that Apple’s investment plans remain unchanged, with Foxconn expanding its Indian operations and aiming to produce 25-30 million iPhones in the country by 2025.
Trump’s remarks come amid Apple’s ongoing efforts to diversify its supply chain away from China, where the majority of its devices are currently assembled. India has emerged as a key alternative, with Apple ramping up production and increasing its output by 60% in the last fiscal year. Despite Trump’s push for U.S.-based manufacturing, analysts remain skeptical, citing high costs and logistical challenges. Experts predict that Apple could manufacture 60-65% of its smartphones in India by late 2025, making it a crucial hub for the company’s global operations.
While Trump’s stance on domestic manufacturing aligns with his broader economic policies, Apple’s strategy reflects a long-term vision for supply chain resilience. The company’s Indian expansion includes $1.5 billion in investments and infrastructure development for workers. With Apple’s commitment to India remaining firm, the tech giant is expected to continue leveraging the country’s growing manufacturing capabilities, despite political pressures from the U.S. administration.