According to sources cited by CNBC-TV18, Apple has confirmed to the Indian government that it will stick to its current investment plans in the country, with no alterations expected.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed disapproval of Apple’s growing manufacturing presence in India during a business roundtable in Doha, Qatar, on May 15, 2025, urging Apple to build domestically and create jobs in the U.S.
“I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday…You are coming here (U.S.) with $500 billion, and you are building all over India. I don’t want you to build in India. You can build in India, if you want to take care of India” said the president.
Follow us to stay updated on your favorite messenger app!
Apple plans to invest over $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years, focusing on high-skilled manufacturing, artificial intelligence, silicon engineering, and skills development for students and workers.
Apple mitigated the impact of U.S.-China tariffs by shifting its import sources to other regions like India, which offers a favorable environment for manufacturing due to supportive policies and a skilled workforce.
According to Counterpoint Research, around 16% of Apple’s iPhones made globally were assembled in India last year, and the proportion is expected to reach 20% this year, as estimated by vice president Neil Shah.
Neil Shah believes India’s potential as an alternative to China is evident, saying, “All the stars are aligned for India to be the alternate destination to China.” He further explains that Apple’s iPhone manufacturing strategy typically focuses on countries that offer benefits such as geographical advantages, government incentives, favorable costs, and strong domestic demand, which aligns with India’s current position.
According to an ET report, Apple’s wholesale revenues from iPhones in India increased by 28% to reach $2.53-2.92 billion in the March quarter of 2025, driven by record sales.
At the Doha event, Trump highlighted India as one of the nations with the highest tariffs globally, making it challenging for the US to sell there. However, he mentioned a recent development, saying, “But now they’ve offered us a deal where they are willing to charge no tariff, literally.”
India’s Foreign Minister S Jaishankar responded, stating that any trade deal must be mutually beneficial, and until that is achieved, it would be premature to make judgments.
Post Apple’s decision, Trump, speaking in the Oval Office, said that Apple can continue manufacturing its devices in India, but the company will face a 25 percent tariff on products sold in the United States that are manufactured overseas.
“I had an understanding with Tim that he wouldn’t be doing this. He said he’s going to India to build plants. I said, ‘That’s okay, but you’re not going to sell into here without Tariffs,” said Trump
“… a Tariff of at least 25 per cent must be paid by Apple to the US. American jobs come first!” Trump added
ⓘ LAFFAZ Media is not responsible for the content of external websites linked in the articles. All users are required to read and abide by our Terms of Service.
