Apple's Expansion Plans and Trump's Opposition

Apple has significant expansion plans for India, which are now under scrutiny by US President Donald Trump. Despite not currently manufacturing iPhones in the United States, Trump has expressed his desire for this to change, directly communicating his concerns to Apple CEO Tim Cook.

The Current State of iPhone Production

The majority of iPhone production is based in China, with facilities in India producing about 40 million units annually. This accounts for roughly 15% of Apple's total production. Trump's recent comments have highlighted his push for Apple to move its manufacturing operations back to the US.

Challenges in Shifting Production

Tim Cook has previously explained the reasons behind Apple's manufacturing choices, emphasizing the availability of skilled labor and advanced tooling in China. The idea of moving production to the US presents significant challenges, including the need to rebuild a complex supply chain and the potential tripling of iPhone prices.

Apple's Commitment to India

Despite Trump's criticisms, Apple has reaffirmed its commitment to continue investments in India through its manufacturing partners. The company's operations in India are a major source of employment, supporting approximately two lakh jobs across the country.

Looking Ahead

The road ahead for Apple's manufacturing strategy is uncertain, with geopolitical factors and trade negotiations playing a critical role. Experts suggest that Trump's remarks may be a negotiating tactic in ongoing India-US trade deal talks.