Following his announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan on May 11, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a strong message to Apple, advising the tech giant to halt its plans to expand iPhone manufacturing in India.
Speaking at an event in Qatar, Trump revealed a recent conversation with Apple CEO Tim Cook, where he criticized the company’s decision to shift operations to India. “I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday,” Trump said. “I told him, ‘Tim, you’re my friend. I’ve treated you well. You’re bringing $500 billion here, but now you’re investing in India. We’re not interested in you building in India. India is doing just fine. We want you to build here.’”
Trump’s remarks come at a time when Apple is actively seeking to diversify its manufacturing base beyond China. By moving operations to India, the company aims to reduce its dependence on Chinese factories, mitigate geopolitical risks, and access a growing consumer market. However, Trump’s comments reflect a broader push to retain manufacturing jobs and investment within the United States.
In the same speech, Trump raised concerns about India’s high tariff barriers and noted that India had proposed a new trade deal offering significantly reduced tariffs on American goods — dropping from the current 13% to under 4% — in hopes of finalizing an agreement during the U.S.’s 90-day suspension of further tariff hikes announced on April 9.
India’s offer to eliminate or drastically lower tariffs signals its desire to improve trade ties with Washington. However, the Indian government has not confirmed the details publicly, reaffirming its stance on maintaining strategic autonomy and pursuing bilateral negotiations.
Meanwhile, Apple continues with its long-term strategy to relocate more of its production outside China. The tech giant plans to supply a majority of iPhones sold in the U.S. from its Indian facilities by the end of next year.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is set to visit Washington from May 17 to 20 for continued trade talks, as both countries work toward finalizing a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
