Trump Tells Apple CEO “Don’t Build in India” – iPhone Production Strategy in Focus

May 15, 2025 – Doha, Qatar:
In a bold and widely discussed move, former U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly told Apple CEO Tim Cook that he disapproves of Apple’s continued expansion of iPhone production in India. This statement came during Trump’s recent state visit to Qatar, where he addressed top business leaders and made his position on Apple’s global strategy clear.

According to multiple credible sources, including CNBC, Hindustan Times, and the Times of India, Trump told Cook:

“I said to him, my friend, I am treating you very good. You are coming up with $500 billion, but now I hear you are building all over India. I don’t want you building in India.”

The Context: Trade Tensions & Domestic Manufacturing Push

Trump’s remarks are consistent with his long-standing policy goals—strengthening U.S. domestic manufacturing, particularly in the tech sector. He has frequently voiced concerns about America’s overreliance on foreign production hubs, especially in China and now India.

During his speech, Trump referenced Apple's $500 billion investment announcement in the U.S., using it as a backdrop to challenge Cook on Apple's India operations. He also criticized India’s trade environment, referring to the country as having “one of the highest tariff barriers in the world.” While India reportedly offered a “zero tariff” trade deal, Trump brushed it off with a nationalist tone, stating, “India can take care of themselves.”

Apple’s Push in India: A Strategic Shift Away from China

Apple has been actively scaling up its manufacturing footprint in India, aiming to produce 25% of its global iPhone supply in the country. In the financial year ending March 2025, Apple manufactured iPhones worth $22 billion in India—a 60% year-over-year growth.

This shift is part of a broader move to diversify away from Chinese production due to trade conflicts and past supply chain disruptions. Foxconn, a key Apple supplier, has received approval to invest $433 million in a semiconductor facility in India in partnership with HCL Group.

Why Trump’s Comments Matter

Trump’s directive could put significant pressure on Apple to re-evaluate its global strategy. Manufacturing in the U.S. comes with major cost implications. Experts estimate that an iPhone made entirely in the U.S. could cost anywhere between $1,500 to $3,500—a sharp rise from its current price point.

Moreover, Trump’s stance might impact the ongoing U.S.-India trade discussions. He also threatened reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods, suggesting a 26% U.S. tariff might return in full force after July 2025, unless trade relations improve.

What Comes Next for Apple?

Despite Trump’s comments, Apple is unlikely to make sudden changes without strategic evaluation. India offers Apple:

• A fast-growing skilled labor base

• Tax incentives and infrastructure partnerships

• A growing domestic iPhone market

However, political pressure from U.S. leadership, especially from influential figures like Trump, may prompt Apple to explore new balancing strategies between national demands and international diversification.