A Potential Shift in U.S. Tech Trade Could Hit Apple’s Global Supply Chain
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Credit _DNA |
Former President Donald Trump has hinted that if he returns to office, he may introduce tariffs on Apple products manufactured outside the United States — even those made in India. This proposal is part of his broader push to bring more American companies' manufacturing back home.
Speaking at a campaign event, Trump criticized Apple for continuing to assemble its devices overseas despite being one of the biggest U.S. companies. “If Apple wants to sell in America, they should build in America,” he said. “Products made in places like China or India shouldn’t get a free pass.”
Apple has been shifting some of its production to India in recent years to reduce its dependence on China. The move was seen as a way to avoid earlier trade tensions and manage global supply risks. India has welcomed Apple with incentives and support, becoming a key part of the company’s global strategy.
However, Trump’s comments suggest that even Indian-made iPhones and MacBooks could face taxes at the U.S. border. Experts say this could make Apple products more expensive for American customers and strain U.S. relations with India.
So far, Apple has not responded to the remarks, and no official policy has been proposed. But the warning adds new uncertainty for tech companies that rely on international manufacturing.
Whether this is just campaign talk or a sign of future trade policy remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the debate over where American products should be made is heating up again.
Political and Economic Reactions
India, now a critical manufacturing partner for several U.S. tech firms, has yet to respond officially to Trump’s remarks. However, experts say the threat of tariffs could complicate bilateral economic relations, especially at a time when Washington and New Delhi have been strengthening strategic ties.
Economists also warn that such trade measures could spark retaliatory action and further disrupt global technology supply chains already challenged by inflation, labor shortages, and shipping costs.
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