Trump Pressures Apple to Boost US iPhone Production
President Donald Trump has urged Apple CEO Tim Cook to shift iPhone production from India to the United States. Trump's request comes after Apple announced plans to import iPhones manufactured in India to meet US demand.
During a business summit in Doha, Trump stated he met with Cook and asked him to prioritize US manufacturing.
“I said to him, 'Tim, you're my friend, I've treated you very good. You're coming up with $500 billion, but now I hear you are building all over India. I don't want you building in India. You can build in India, if you want to take care of India because India is one of the highest tariff nations in the world,'” Trump said.
Trump, known for his aggressive stance on tariffs, indicated Apple would increase US production, but provided no specific details or timeline.
Apple has committed to investing $500 billion over four years to expand US manufacturing. This includes establishing new facilities, creating jobs, and launching a manufacturing academy.
Trump's comments follow India's approval of a $435 million Foxconn project to produce Apple chips in the country. Apple has been actively seeking to diversify its manufacturing base and reduce its dependence on China.
Reports suggest Apple already produces 20% of its iPhones in India, with plans to potentially import all US-sold iPhones from India by 2026.
Apple has not yet responded to a request for comment.
Earlier this month, Apple CEO Tim Cook announced plans to import iPhones made in India to satisfy US demand. Learn more about Apple's plans.
For more information on Trump's remarks, see the video of his speech. Watch here.
Details on Apple's $500 billion US manufacturing investment are available. Read more.
India recently approved a $435 million Foxconn project for Apple chip production. Learn more about the Foxconn project.
A Bloomberg report indicates Apple currently produces 20% of its iPhones in India. Read the Bloomberg report.
The Financial Times reports Apple aims to import all US-sold iPhones from India by 2026. Read the Financial Times report.
