President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Apple, urging the tech giant to relocate iPhone production to the United States—or face steep tariffs. In remarks made from the White House Oval Office during a signing ceremony on nuclear energy, Trump declared his dissatisfaction with Apple’s decision to expand manufacturing in India. He warned that any iPhones built overseas could be subject to a 25% import tariff beginning in June 2025.
“I had an understanding with Tim [Cook] that he wouldn’t be doing this,” Trump said, referencing a conversation with the Apple CEO. “He said he’s going to India to build plants. I said, ‘That’s okay, but you’re not going to sell into here without tariffs.’” He emphasized, “If they’re going to sell iPhones in America, I want them built in America.”
The President’s comments initially targeted Apple but quickly expanded to include other smartphone makers like Samsung and Huawei. “It would be anybody that makes that product, otherwise it wouldn’t be fair,” he added.
Earlier the same day, Trump took to social media to double down on his stance: “I expect their iPhones that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else. If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25 percent must be paid by Apple to the US. American jobs come first!”
During a recent visit to Doha, Trump reportedly urged Cook once again to prioritize U.S.-based production. He criticized India’s high tariff environment, calling it a tough market for American businesses. “They’ve offered us a deal with no tariffs,” Trump noted, “but I told Tim, ‘I don’t want you building in India. Build here.’”
Apple CEO Tim Cook, responding to tariff questions during the company’s Q2 2025 earnings call, pointed out that tariff eligibility depends on where products are manufactured. Industry experts warn that moving iPhone production to the U.S. would significantly increase costs due to higher wages and infrastructure expenses. Some analysts estimate that a domestically produced iPhone could retail for over $3,000—potentially reducing demand.
Moreover, transitioning Apple’s supply chain to the U.S. would require massive investment and time. The company currently depends on a sophisticated network of global suppliers, primarily based in Asia.
The proposed tariffs have ignited debate across industries and among economists. Critics argue they could raise consumer prices and disrupt international trade, while proponents believe the policy could revitalize American manufacturing and job creation.
As of now, the White House has not provided detailed guidance on how the tariffs will be enforced or whether companies planning to invest in U.S. production facilities might be exempt.
The clock is ticking, with the proposed tariffs set to take effect by the end of June 2025—unless Apple and others shift their manufacturing strategies.
