India Confident That Apple's iPhone Manufacturing Strategy Will Be Driven By Profits, Not Politics: Report
Despite renewed pressure from US President Donald Trump on Apple to bring iPhone production back to American soil, senior officials in New Delhi remained confident that economic rationale would outweigh any political influence in the company’s decision-making process, media reports said.
According to top government sources who spoke with CNN-News18, India believes that tech giants like Apple will base their manufacturing choices on profitability rather than geopolitical compulsion.
This assertion came shortly after Trump warned of imposing a 25 per cent tariff on iPhones not made in the United States. The Indian government, however, sees its competitive advantages—such as a skilled workforce, growing infrastructure, and cost efficiency—as stronger factors influencing Apple’s operations.
The report quoted a senior official who stated that they remained confident that the iPhone maker will 'weigh profits over any pressure', emphasising that financial logic will ultimately dictate corporate choices, not political directives, reported Moneycontrol.
India’s Expanding Role in Apple’s Global Supply Chain
Currently, Apple manufactures none of its smartphones in the US. A significant portion of production still takes place in China, but India has carved out a growing share. Roughly 15 per cent of Apple’s iPhone production now happens in India, amounting to about 40 million units each year.
In the financial year ending March 31, Apple reportedly increased its iPhone output in India by 60 per cent. The total production value from its Indian facilities for that period is estimated at $22 billion—a strong indicator of the country’s rising role in Apple’s global supply chain.
Trump reiterated his protectionist stance on May 23, directly addressing Apple CEO Tim Cook through a post on Truth Social. “I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhones that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else. If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25 per cent must be paid by Apple to the US. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
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Profit, Not Politics, to Drive Manufacturing Choices
While Trump’s comments mark a continuation of his “America First” approach to trade, India remains unfazed. Officials are optimistic that companies like Apple will prioritise long-term profitability, operational ease, and the availability of skilled labour—advantages that India continues to strengthen. In this context, New Delhi appears confident that its position as a viable and growing manufacturing hub will not be easily overshadowed by geopolitical rhetoric.
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