No iPhones from India, Trump threatens 25% tariff on Apple if iPhones are not made in the US

Former US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy and market turbulence by threatening Apple with a 25% tariff if iPhones sold in the United States are not manufactured domestically. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had previously told Apple CEO Tim Cook that iPhones must be built in the US—not in India or any other country.

“If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the US,” he warned, adding, “Thank you for your attention to this matter!” The statement led to a 2.5% drop in Apple’s shares during premarket trading and also impacted broader US stock futures.

Trump’s demand comes at a time when Apple is increasingly shifting production to India, as it diversifies away from China due to ongoing trade tensions and supply chain risks. According to reports, most US-bound iPhones will start being produced in India from June. However, it remains legally unclear whether Trump—or any president—can impose such a targeted tariff against a specific private company like Apple.

Apple has not responded to Trump’s statement yet. The warning appears to align with Trump’s broader push for bringing manufacturing jobs back to the United States, though enforcement of such measures could face significant legal and logistical hurdles.