Trump Calls on Apple to Manufacture iPhones in the USA Instead of China

The goal for Trump is to have Apple manufacture its iPhones in the USA, a task that analysts say will be extremely challenging. The White House announced this today (13.04.2025). Apple’s global supply chain is heavily concentrated in China, which has faced the brunt of Donald Trump’s tariffs. In real numbers, it would cost Apple approximately $30 billion and three years to shift just 10% of its supply chain back to the USA. Currently, products face a 20% tariff, but new technology-specific tariffs are expected soon. Tech giants like Apple rely heavily on China, as the majority of their product manufacturing occurs there. Smartphones alone were the top import from China to the USA in 2024, valued at $41.7 billion. About 90% of iPhones are assembled in China, accounting for at least 80% of Apple’s total production. Additionally, 51% of Macs and 80% of iPads are also assembled in China. Meanwhile, China’s Ministry of Commerce encourages the US to reverse its tariff practices, calling them erroneous. The White House has shifted from no negotiation on base tariffs to offering exemptions on specific items causing trade deficits. Some call this ‘the art of rollback,’ as noted by BBC. Trump received applause for his decision during an appearance at Miami’s Kaseya Center, where martial arts events take place. He promises more details tomorrow (14.03.2025), aiming to relieve consumers of additional costs, giving tech companies time to relocate production to the USA.