Former President Donald Trump escalated his push for American-made tech Friday, declaring that Apple should face a 25% tariff on iPhones manufactured outside the U.S.—a move that could significantly raise prices for consumers.
Key Details:
- Trump’s Demand: In a Truth Social post, he claimed to have warned Apple CEO Tim Cook years ago that iPhones sold in the U.S. must be made domestically—not in China, India, or elsewhere.
- Market Reaction: Apple’s stock dropped over 2% in premarket trading following the remarks.
- Current Production: While most iPhones are still made in China, Apple has been shifting some assembly to India to diversify supply chains and ease trade tensions.
Why This Matters:
- Consumer Impact: Analysts estimate U.S.-made iPhones could cost 25% more—potentially pricing out many buyers.
- Global Supply Chains: Apple relies on complex international manufacturing, making a full U.S. shift logistically difficult.
- Political Strategy: Trump has long advocated protectionist trade policies, including tariffs on China, but this directly targets a flagship American company.
