India has sought to ease concerns sparked by recent remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump criticizing Apple’s expanding manufacturing footprint in the country. According to government sources cited by CNBC-TV18, Apple has “assured the Indian government” of its continued commitment to India as a strategic production hub, reaffirming that there is “no change in Apple’s investment plans.”
President Trump, during a stop in Doha as part of his Gulf tour, reportedly told Apple CEO Tim Cook that the United States is “not interested” in the tech giant building out its manufacturing base in India, stating that “they can take care of themselves.” The comments are in line with Trump’s ongoing push to bring U.S. corporate manufacturing back home and reduce reliance on overseas production, particularly in countries like India and China.
Despite the political rhetoric, Apple’s trajectory in India remains aggressive and forward-looking. For FY2025, the company is estimated to have reached $22 billion in production value in the country and is on course to position India as its central hub for iPhone exports to the U.S. by the end of 2026. The shift is part of Apple’s broader strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce overdependence on China amid rising geopolitical uncertainties and potential tariff risks.
In March alone, Apple exported nearly $2 billion worth of iPhones from its Indian facilities to the U.S.—a record high. The move came just ahead of fresh tariff threats from the Trump administration, highlighting India’s growing significance in Apple’s global logistics and supply operations.
Adding to the complexity, Trump also claimed during his Doha address that India has offered the U.S. a “zero tariffs” deal. However, the Indian government has yet to issue an official response or clarify the scope of the alleged offer.
Apple’s expansion in India has been bolstered by supportive government policies and robust local partnerships. The company’s collaboration with the Tata Group, in particular, has streamlined compliance and operational efficiencies, encouraging deeper investment.
As Apple moves ahead with its diversification plans, India’s role as a key player in global electronics manufacturing appears set to expand, even as political pressures from the U.S. leadership attempt to shift the narrative back toward domestic production.
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