Don’t Want You Building In India": Trump Tells Apple CEO Tim Cook Amid Trade Tensions

In a surprising statement that has stirred both business and diplomatic circles, former US President Donald Trumppublicly urged Apple CEO Tim Cook to avoid expanding manufacturing operations in India, citing high tariffs and America-first priorities.

“India Can Take Care of Themselves,” Says Trump

Speaking at a business summit in Doha, Trump expressed frustration over Apple’s growing investment in Indian manufacturing. “You’re coming up with $500 billion, but now I hear you’re building all over India. I don’t want you building in India,” he said. “India is one of the highest tariff nations in the world. It’s very hard to sell there.”

Trump also claimed that India had offered a zero-tariff deal to the US—though Indian officials have publicly denied the existence of any such finalized agreement.

Related Post: How US Tariff Hikes Are Affecting Global Tech Manufacturing

Apple’s India Expansion: A Strategic Shift

Trump’s remarks come at a crucial time for Apple, which is actively diversifying its manufacturing base away from China and increasing production in India. According to AFP, Apple CEO Tim Cook recently noted that “a majority of iPhones sold in the US will soon be made in India.”

Apple currently operates three major facilities in India—two in Tamil Nadu and one in Karnataka—through partners Foxconn and Tata Group. Two more plants are in development. In FY2024-25, the company assembled $22 billion worth of iPhones in India, marking a 60% year-over-year increase.

India Responds: Trade Talks Ongoing, No Tariff Deal Yet

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar responded to Trump’s claims, clarifying that no formal agreement on zero tariffs has been signed.

“These are complicated negotiations,” he said. “Any deal has to be mutually beneficial, and until then, assumptions like zero tariffs are premature.”

India has reportedly offered to cut average tariff rates and eliminate duties on 60% of US-bound products, in return for exemptions from current and future US tariffs. However, talks are still underway.

India and the US recorded $129 billion in bilateral trade in 2024, with India maintaining a $45.7 billion trade surplus. A recent 90-day pause on new US tariffs for Indian goods is viewed as a window for diplomacy before the freeze expires on July 9, 2025.

What’s at Stake?

Trump’s push against India-based Apple manufacturing underscores broader geopolitical shifts in supply chains. As global tech giants look to “China Plus One” strategies, India is emerging as a key manufacturing hub.

Explore More: India’s Rise as a Global Electronics Manufacturing Hub