What happened?
On May 15, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump publicly expressed disapproval of Apple’s decision to expand iPhone production in India. He revealed that he had advised Apple CEO Tim Cook against manufacturing in India, citing concerns over high tariffs and emphasizing that Apple should prioritize U.S. manufacturing. In response, a senior Indian government official highlighted India’s emergence as a significant mobile manufacturing hub under the “Make in India” initiative. The official noted that India now assembles 15% of Apple’s iPhones, primarily for export to the U.S., and emphasized that companies like Apple make decisions based on manufacturing competitiveness rather than political statements.
Why it matters to India
India’s position as a growing hub for electronics manufacturing, particularly for global giants like Apple, is crucial for its economic development and employment generation. The government’s emphasis on competitiveness and infrastructure development has attracted significant foreign investment. Trump’s remarks, while politically charged, are unlikely to deter companies that recognize the strategic advantages of operating in India. Maintaining and enhancing this competitive edge is essential for India’s continued growth in the global manufacturing landscape.