Trump Threatens Apple with 25% Tariff on iPhones Not Made in USA

May 23: Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Apple, threatening a 25% tariff on Apple products if iPhones are not manufactured within the United States. Trump has previously criticized Apple for producing iPhones in India or other countries, insisting that manufacturing should take place only in the U.S.

Trump’s remarks come amid broader tensions regarding trade and manufacturing. He stated that importing iPhones made in countries like India would attract a 25% tax, which he claims is necessary to bring jobs back to America. This marks the second time in recent days that Trump has publicly pressured Apple not to expand its manufacturing operations in India.

Earlier Warning from Trump: During his recent tour of Gulf countries, Trump had already warned Apple not to set up factories in India. Following his statement, Apple had reportedly assured Indian government officials that it would proceed with its investment plans in India without changes.

Apple recently announced that it plans to manufacture all iPhones sold in the U.S. in India. This involves relocating production from its factories in China to Indian facilities as part of its global supply chain diversification strategy.

Indian officials have expressed concerns that such statements from Trump could impact foreign investment sentiment, especially in sectors where India is emerging as a major manufacturing hub.