Apple is set to begin exporting Made-in-India iPhone 17 models to the United States, marking a significant milestone in its global manufacturing strategy. Despite former US President Donald Trump’s objections, Apple’s Foxconn facility in Bengaluru is gearing up to ship iPhones to the US market starting June 2025.
Apple’s Expansion in India
Apple has been steadily increasing its manufacturing footprint in India, with Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron India playing key roles in production. The Devanahalli ITIR plant in Karnataka is now ready to export iPhones globally, reinforcing India’s position as a major manufacturing hub.
Trump’s Opposition to Apple’s India Strategy
During a business event in Doha, Qatar, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Apple’s growing presence in India, stating, “We’re not interested in you building in India. They can take care of themselves”. He urged Apple CEO Tim Cook to increase production in the US, emphasizing his push for domestic manufacturing.
Apple’s Response & Future Plans
Despite Trump’s remarks, Apple executives have assured the Indian government that their investment plans remain unchanged. The company has committed to expanding production in India, with 15% of iPhones globally now being manufactured in the country.
Impact on Global Trade & Tariffs
Apple’s decision to scale iPhone production in India comes amid rising US-China trade tensions and higher tariffs on Chinese-made goods. By shifting production to India, Apple aims to reduce dependency on China while benefiting from India’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.
What’s Next for Apple in India?
With Foxconn ramping up production, Apple is expected to increase exports to the US, further solidifying India’s role in its global supply chain. As geopolitical pressures mount, Apple’s India expansion could reshape the future of smartphone manufacturing.
Stay tuned for more updates on Apple’s India strategy, iPhone 17 exports, and global tech developments!
