US Smartphone Imports from India Climb to 36% in 2025, Apple Leads Shift

India's ascent as a major smartphone exporter to the US signals a significant shift in global supply chains. In 2025, 1 in 3 smartphones imported by the US originated from India, dominated by Apple’s supply focus on the growing South Asian manufacturing base, as per news reports.

India’s Share in US Smartphone Imports Surges to 36%

India’s contribution to US smartphone imports surged to 36% in January to May 2025, up from just 11% during the same period in 2024. This growth reflects a more than threefold increase in shipments and has significantly closed the gap with China, whose share fell from 82% to 49% within a year. Apple’s decision to pivot production towards India is the primary driver behind this shift.

Apple Expands Manufacturing in India

Apple has sharply expanded its manufacturing operations in India since the launch of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. In 2025, around 20% of Apple’s global iPhone production is based in India. The company now manufactures all models, including high-end variants, locally. This move has corresponded with a dramatic increase in US-bound shipments, with Apple CEO Tim Cook noting that most US iPhones in Q2 would originate from India.

Read More: India's Smartphone Exports Grew 7% YoY Backed by New Product Launches!

Trade Headwinds and US Tariff Warning

While India enjoys an export boom, potential threats loom. Former US President Donald Trump has warned of a proposed 25% tariff on iPhones made in India if Apple does not shift assembly to the US. Despite this, Apple’s commitment remains intact, with Foxconn injecting $1.49 billion into its Indian unit for a new facility in Tamil Nadu.

Vietnam and China’s Changing Positions

Between January and May 2025, China exported 29.4 million smartphones to the US, a 27% decline year-on-year. Vietnam holds 14% of the import share with 8.3 million units. As Apple and other manufacturers diversify, China’s dominance is receding, opening opportunities for both India and Vietnam to capture export volume.

Conclusion

India's rapid rise as a smartphone manufacturing hub highlights shifting dynamics in global supply chains. With Apple at the helm, India’s 36% share of US imports in 2025 could mark the beginning of a long-term transformation in technology production and trade flows.

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