What's Wrong? Donald Trump Asks Tim Cook to Stay Away From India, Will Apple iPhone Manufacturing Shift?

In a statement that has stirred controversy, former US President Donald Trump has reportedly discouraged Apple CEO Tim Cook from expanding operations in India, labeling it as unnecessary and undesirable.

According to a tweet by journalist Umashankar, Trump told Cook:

🚨अमेरिकी राष्ट्रपति ट्रंप का घनघोर भारत विरोधी बयान

एप्पल CEO टिम कुक से कहा कि “मुझे आपसे समस्या ये है कि आप भारत में विस्तार करने जा रहे हैं… भारत में विस्तार करने की ज़रूरत नहीं। हम नहीं चाहते कि आप भारत में विस्तार करें” pic.twitter.com/xouOUwdsLb

— Umashankar Singh उमाशंकर सिंह (@umashankarsingh) May 15, 2025

"मुझे आपसे समस्या ये है कि आप भारत में विस्तार करने जा रहे हैं… भारत में विस्तार करने की ज़रूरत नहीं। हम नहीं चाहते कि आप भारत में विस्तार करें।"

(“My problem with you is that you are planning to expand in India… There’s no need to expand there. We don’t want you to expand in India.”)

Context: Apple's Shifting Focus to India

Trump's remark comes at a time when Apple is increasingly shifting its manufacturing and supply chain operations to India, a move seen as part of its China+1 strategy. In recent years, Apple has ramped up iPhone production in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, and plans are underway for broader expansion with local partnerships.

Industry experts believe this shift is not just about cost efficiency, but also about diversifying geopolitical risk and tapping into India's growing consumer base.

Why Trump's Comment Matters

Though Trump is no longer in office, his influence on American business sentiment remains significant, especially with growing chatter about his potential 2024 presidential run. His statement may not change Apple’s roadmap immediately, but it could spark political tensions or add pressure on American firms investing abroad.

Mixed Reactions Online

The comment has ignited sharp reactions across social media:

Some have criticized Trump for taking a “protectionist stance”, claiming it undermines global trade.

Others view it as a reflection of his “America First” philosophy, aimed at bringing manufacturing back to US soil.

Meanwhile, neither Apple nor Tim Cook has officially responded to the claim.

What’s Next for Apple India?

Despite the political noise, Apple’s India story appears on track. The company recently launched its first Apple Stores in Mumbai and Delhi, and its suppliers like Foxconn and Pegatron are doubling down on local investments.

Analysts say Trump’s comments may stir temporary debate, but are unlikely to derail the long-term India push—especially given India’s role in Apple’s global supply chain resilience.