Trump Warns Apple to Make iPhones in the US or Face 25% Tariff

President Donald Trump has released a new statement about Apple, once again calling for iPhones sold in the United States to be manufactured domestically. He also warned that a significant tariff could be imposed if that does not happen. The message was posted to Truth Social on May 23, 2025.

"I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhone's that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else," Trump wrote. "If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the U.S. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"

This is not the first time Trump has raised the issue with Apple's CEO. Earlier this month, during a state visit to Qatar, Trump recalled a recent conversation with Tim Cook where he urged Apple to shift iPhone production to the United States instead of continuing to expand in India. At the time, he noted that Apple would be increasing its production in the United States and cited the company's $500 billion investment pledge in the U.S. economy.


Apple has been steadily working to diversify its supply chain, with major efforts to boost iPhone production in India. A new Tata Electronics factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, has already begun production, and a large Foxconn facility in Bengaluru is preparing to start shipments. The expansion is backed by significant investment, including a recent $1.5 billion infusion from Foxconn. The company is reportedly aiming for most iPhones sold in the U.S. to be assembled in India by the end of 2026. This shift is partly driven by rising production costs and changes in global trade dynamics.

Relocating iPhone assembly to the United States on a large scale would be a major challenge for Apple. Its current supply chain is mostly based in Asia and has taken years to develop. Rebuilding that network of suppliers and skilled labor in the U.S. would require a substantial effort. Higher labor costs and the massive scale of iPhone production are key reasons why Apple continues to manufacture in countries like China and India. While some Mac Pro units are assembled in the U.S., producing iPhones domestically would require a completely different level of investment and infrastructure.

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