Trump’s Concerns Over Apple’s Manufacturing Shift
During a press conference in Qatar, President Trump revealed a conversation with Apple CEO Tim Cook, expressing his dissatisfaction with the company’s plans to increase iPhone production in India. “I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday,” Trump stated. “You’re coming in with $500 billion, but now I hear you’re building all over India. I don’t want you building in India.”
Trump emphasized the importance of domestic manufacturing, suggesting that Apple’s expansion in India could undermine U.S. economic interests. He also mentioned that Apple would be “upping their production in the United States,” although specific details were not provided.
Apple’s Commitment to India
Despite President Trump‘s remarks, Apple has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding manufacturing operations in India. According to Indian government officials, Apple executives have confirmed that their investment plans remain unchanged, with India continuing to be a crucial manufacturing destination for their products.
India currently contributes approximately 15% of global iPhone production, with major suppliers like Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron operating within the country. In March 2025, Apple shipped nearly $2 billion worth of iPhones from India to the U.S., marking an all-time high and indicating the company’s efforts to diversify its supply chain amidst global trade tensions.
Challenges of U.S.-Based iPhone Production
Transitioning iPhone manufacturing to the United States presents significant challenges. Industry experts note that the U.S. lacks the necessary infrastructure and skilled labor force to support large-scale smartphone production. Analysts estimate that assembling iPhones domestically could triple production costs, making it an impractical solution for Apple. Source: The Guardian
Apple’s reliance on established manufacturing hubs like China and India is driven by the availability of skilled workers and efficient supply chains. While the company has announced a $500 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing over the next four years, the feasibility of shifting significant iPhone production to the U.S. remains uncertain.
