Trump Tells Apple Not to Expand Production in India Amid Trade Tensions: Report

US President Donald Trump recently advised Apple CEO Tim Cook against expanding the company’s production operations in India. Speaking at a business event in Doha, Trump emphasised that India is capable of managing its own affairs and that Apple should increase manufacturing within the United States instead, as per Bloomberg news report.

Rising Trade Tensions Over Tariffs Strain US-India Relations

This statement came amid ongoing trade tensions between the US and India, which were escalated after the US imposed higher tariffs on Indian steel and aluminium imports. In response, India threatened retaliatory tariffs, adding strain to bilateral trade relations.

Despite the rhetoric, trade negotiations continue behind the scenes, with both countries reportedly working to reach mutually beneficial agreements.

Trump also claimed India offered to remove tariffs on US goods, a proposal that, if realised, could ease some trade frictions. Formal talks resumed following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington earlier this year, with expectations to complete the first phase of a trade deal by autumn.

Apple’s India Manufacturing Growth Faces Trade Hurdles

Apple has steadily increased its manufacturing footprint in India over recent years, producing multiple iPhone models through local partners such as Foxconn and Wistron.

This expansion supports India’s "Make in India" initiative aimed at boosting foreign investment and reducing dependence on imports.

However, Trump’s public comments and trade tensions may complicate Apple’s strategic plans in the region.

India Pushes Back on Trump’s Trade-Military Link

Indian officials have expressed frustration over Trump’s remarks, especially when he linked trade discussions to military tensions with Pakistan a connection denied by Indian authorities. As trade talks progress, the future of Apple’s India operations and the broader US-India economic relationship remain uncertain, with developments likely to impact global tech supply chains and diplomatic ties.

Read More: Trump Hints at Apple Investment After US-China Tariff Truce.

Conclusion

The evolving trade dynamics between the US and India, highlighted by President Trump’s remarks to Apple, underscore the complexities in balancing geopolitical interests with business strategies.

While Apple’s growing manufacturing presence in India supports local initiatives, ongoing tensions and diplomatic sensitivities may influence future investments and trade agreements.

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