Apple Under Fire: Trump Demands 1 Bold Move to Halt $500B iPhone Shift to India

Former President Donald Trump has pressured Apple CEO Tim Cook to shift iPhone production back to the U.S., criticizing the tech giant’s expansion in India. During recent talks, Trump emphasized his administration’s past support for Apple, including its $500 billion U.S. investment pledge, and insisted the company should prioritize American manufacturing over overseas operations. Apple has been diversifying production away from China due to trade tensions, with India set to become its primary iPhone supplier for the U.S. market by late 2026.

However, analysts argue that relocating production stateside would significantly increase costs, making a full reshoring unlikely. Trump’s push reflects his broader “America First” trade agenda, which could intensify if he returns to office. While Apple may announce some U.S. expansions to appease political pressure, its long-term strategy will likely balance global supply chains with economic realities. The market reacted cautiously, with Apple’s stock dipping slightly amid the uncertainty. The situation highlights the ongoing clash between nationalist manufacturing policies and the tech industry’s reliance on globalized production. 

Apple Under Fire: Trump Demands 1 Bold Move to Halt $500B iPhone Shift to India

Former President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Apple’s decision to expand iPhone manufacturing in India, urging CEO Tim Cook to bring production back to the United States instead. The remarks, made during a discussion on U.S.-India trade relations, highlight Trump’s ongoing push for American manufacturing—a key theme of his economic policy.  

Trump’s Direct Appeal to Tim Cook 

During a press briefing on Thursday, Trump revealed details of a recent conversation with Apple’s CEO:  

“I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday,” Trump said. “I told him, ‘My friend, I treated you very good. You’re coming here with $500 billion, but now I hear you’re building all over India. I don’t want you building in India.’”  

Trump was referring to Apple’s February 2025 pledge to invest $500 billion in U.S. operations, which included expanding domestic facilities and creating jobs. However, Apple has also been rapidly diversifying its supply chain away from China, with India emerging as a major production hub for iPhones sold in the U.S. market.  

Trump’s Ultimatum:  

• “We’re not interested in you building in India. India can take care of themselves… We want you to build here.”  

• He claimed Apple agreed to increase U.S. production, though no specifics were provided. 

Why Apple Is Moving Production Out of China 

Apple’s shift to India and Vietnam accelerated after Trump reinstated heavy tariffs on Chinese imports, aiming to reduce U.S. reliance on Beijing. Key moves include:  

• India: Set to produce most U.S.-bound iPhones by late 2026.  

• Vietnam: Now manufacturing iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and AirPods. 

However, experts say reshoring iPhone production to the U.S. is unlikely due to cost and infrastructure hurdles.  

“Making in the U.S. will be much more expensive than assembling iPhones in India,” said Tarun Pathak of Counterpoint Research. “Building a domestic supply chain won’t happen overnight.”  

Market Reaction and Broader Implications 

• Apple’s stock dipped 0.4% following Trump’s comments, closing at $211.45.  

• The broader market remained strong, with the Nasdaq extending its six-day rally. 

Why This Matters:  

• Trade Policy: Trump’s stance signals a potential return to aggressive tariffs and reshoring mandates if he wins the 2024 election.  

• Tech Supply Chains: Apple’s dilemma reflects a growing tension between globalization and nationalism in tech manufacturing. 

What’s Next for Apple? 

While Trump’s pressure may lead to some symbolic U.S. expansions, analysts expect Apple to continue its “China Plus One” strategy, balancing cost efficiency with political demands.  

For now, investors are watching for:  

• New U.S. factory announcements from Apple.  

• Potential tariff adjustments affecting imports from India and Vietnam.  

• Long-term supply chain shifts as geopolitical risks evolve. 

Trump’s latest remarks underscore a recurring debate—can America reclaim high-tech manufacturing, or will global economics keep production overseas? Apple’s next moves may provide the answer.