DOHA, Qatar: US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that he has asked the Apple CEO Tim Cook not to expand the compnay’s investments in India and instead focus on increasing production within the United States.
In remarks that could undermine India’s bid to become a global manufacturing hub, Trump said he was “not interested” in Apple manufacturing its products there, citing high tariffs and national priorities.
Speaking during a visit to Doha, Trump recounted a recent conversation with Apple CEO Tim Cook. “I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday,” Trump said. “I told him, ‘My friend, I’m treating you very well. You’re bringing in $500 billion, but now I hear you’re building all over India.’”
The US President went on to express frustration over Apple’s growing investments in India. “I don’t want you building in India. You can build in India if you want to take care of India,” Trump said. “But remember, India is one of the highest tariff nations in the world—it’s very hard to sell there.”
Highlighting Apple’s long-standing manufacturing ties with China, Trump pointed out the U.S. had supported the company despite that relationship. “I said, ‘Tim, we’re treating you well—we’ve put up with all the plants in China for years. We’re not interested in you building in India. India can take care of themselves.’”
Trump said that Apple would be increasing its production within the United States.
According to industry reports, China currently handles over 75% of iPhone production, while India contributes approximately 18%. Apple has been actively working to shift much of its iPhone assembly for the US market to India by the end of 2026.
Apple CEO Tim Cook recently announced that the majority of iPhones sold in the US will soon be made in India, underscoring the company’s diversification strategy to reduce reliance on China.
In March, Apple achieved a new milestone by exporting 600 tons of iPhones valued at $2 billion from India to the US, a record-breaking figure. Foxconn accounted for $1.3 billion of this total, while Tata Group continues to expand its role in Apple’s supply chain.
