Will Apple iPhone Manufacturing in India Get a Dent? Check Donald Trump's Fresh Salvo to Tim Cook

In a sharp and aggressive message, former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a fresh threat to tech giant Apple, warning of a 25% tariff on iPhones if the company does not shift its manufacturing back to the United States.

#BREAKING: US President Donald Trump threatens fresh 25% tariffs on @Apple if they do not stop manufacturing IPhones “in India or anyplace else”. pic.twitter.com/qLkc8YWJCd

— Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) May 23, 2025

Taking to his official account, Trump wrote:

"I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that 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% must be paid by Apple to the U.S."

This announcement comes as Apple continues to ramp up iPhone production in India, with recent reports confirming increased manufacturing at its Foxconn and Pegatron facilities. The company’s move is part of a broader global strategy to reduce dependence on China and leverage India’s growing tech manufacturing ecosystem.

Trump’s latest comments, however, could complicate Apple’s international production plans, especially if he returns to the White House in the 2024 elections. His administration had previously pushed for strong domestic manufacturing, and this warning revives that sentiment.

Experts believe a 25% tariff could significantly raise iPhone prices in the U.S., potentially hurting both Apple and American consumers. At the same time, such a policy could discourage foreign investment in India’s tech sector, where Apple’s presence has been a major economic booster.

Tim Cook Remained Silent 

For now, Apple and CEO Tim Cook have remained silent on the matter, but with global supply chains in focus, Trump’s statement may reignite debates on trade, tariffs, and tech nationalism.