Trump to Tim Cook: “I Don’t Want Apple Building iPhones in India”
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- May 15
- 3 min read
Tone & Political Bias: Moderately Right-Leaning
Why: The article centers around Trump’s economic nationalism and direct intervention in private sector decisions, with emphasis on American manufacturing and criticism of globalization, core right-wing policy themes.
What Happened
President Donald Trump said he told Apple CEO Tim Cook that he does not want Apple to make iPhones in India. This remark came during a recent episode of the “All-In” podcast, where Trump was speaking about his broader economic goals and foreign policy concerns.
Trump emphasized that under his leadership, U.S. companies like Apple should prioritize manufacturing inside the United States rather than outsourcing to other countries like India or China.
Trump’s Message to Apple
Trump recalled a conversation with Apple CEO Tim Cook where he conveyed his disapproval of Apple’s manufacturing shift to India. He stated:
“I said, Tim, I don’t want Apple building in India — I want it built in the United States.”
Trump did not confirm whether this conversation occurred during his presidency or after he left office, but the message was consistent with his ongoing “America First” manufacturing policy.
Apple’s Manufacturing Shift
Apple has been shifting parts of its iPhone production from China to India over the past several years. This change accelerated due to rising tensions between the U.S. and China, and India’s growing capability in electronics manufacturing. Apple now produces about 14% of its iPhones in India.
The decision was widely seen as part of Apple's strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on Chinese factories.
Trump’s Broader Economic Nationalism
Trump has repeatedly called for American companies to bring jobs and factories back to the U.S. During his presidency, he pushed tariffs, tax incentives, and public pressure to achieve these goals.
His latest comments are consistent with that stance, highlighting concerns over global supply chains and what he views as the weakening of the U.S. economy when companies manufacture abroad.
No Official Apple Response
As of now, Apple has not issued a statement regarding Trump’s comments. Tim Cook has maintained a working relationship with both Democratic and Republican administrations and has previously met with Trump during his time in office. Apple’s current strategy continues to involve diversifying production outside of China due to geopolitical risks and rising labor costs.
A Pattern of Public Pressure
This is not the first time Trump has publicly pressured major companies regarding their operations. During his presidency, he frequently criticized companies like General Motors, Harley-Davidson, and others for manufacturing outside the U.S. He used public platforms to try to influence business decisions, an approach that was both praised and criticized by different political and economic analysts.
Implications Going Forward
Trump is expected to make American manufacturing a central issue in his 2024 presidential campaign. His comments on Apple reflect a continued effort to align U.S. business practices with nationalistic economic goals. At the same time, many tech companies, including Apple, are pursuing global strategies that reflect complex supply chain dynamics not easily reversed by political pressure alone.
India’s Growing Tech Role
India has become increasingly important to global tech manufacturing. With government incentives, rising infrastructure, and a large workforce, the country is attracting companies like Apple, Samsung, and others. Apple's investments in India are also seen as a way to reach more consumers in the growing Indian market, which is now among the world’s largest for smartphones.
Key Takeaways
Trump told Tim Cook he wants Apple to make iPhones in the U.S., not India.
Apple has increased iPhone production in India, now responsible for 14% of global output.
Trump’s remarks are part of his long-standing push for U.S.-based manufacturing.
Apple has not responded to the latest comments.
India’s role in global electronics supply chains continues to expand despite political concerns in the U.S.
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