Apple Shifts iPhone Assembly for US Market from China to India

Apple is relocating iPhone assembly for the US market from China to India due to import tariffs, aiming to produce over 60 million units there.

apple-iphone-india-production
Facebook X LinkedIn Bluesky WhatsApp

Starting next year, Apple plans to assemble iPhones for the US market in India instead of China, according to sources cited by the Financial Times. This move is a response to import tariffs imposed by President Trump. Although smartphones currently have a temporary exemption from these tariffs, Apple is taking precautions.

China faces a 145% import tariff, while India's is significantly lower at 26%. Additionally, India's tariff has been temporarily suspended as the country negotiates a trade agreement with the US.

The Financial Times reports that Indian factories are expected to assemble over 60 million iPhones, doubling the current production in the country.

This marks a significant shift for Apple, which has long relied on China for its primary production hub, particularly in Zhengzhou, known as 'iPhone City.' Last year, 223 million iPhones were produced in China, accounting for over 80% of total production.

Apple has been diversifying its assembly locations across Asia, including Vietnam, to mitigate risks.

Related

apple-us-manufacturing-program
Economy

Apple Commits $600B to US Expansion and Manufacturing Program

Apple increases US investment to $600B, launches American Manufacturing Program to boost domestic production of...

india-china-manufacturing-trade
Economy

India's Ambition to Replace China in Global Manufacturing

India aims to replace China as the world's manufacturing hub with a $23 billion plan, targeting sectors like...

apple-court-ruling-epicgames
Crime

US Judge Reprimands Apple for Ignoring Court Ruling

A US judge has reprimanded Apple for ignoring a court ruling in the Epic Games case, ordering immediate compliance...