India Can Manage Without Apple”: Trump Tells Tim Cook to Focus on the US

 

US President Donald Trump has made headlines with his firm stance on Apple’s expansion in India, urging CEO Tim Cook to prioritize US operations instead. Speaking at a business event in Doha, Trump criticized India’s high tariffs and stated, “India can take care of themselves. I don’t want you building in India.”

 

 

 

Trump’s Concerns About India’s Tariffs

India has long been labeled one of the highest tariff nations in the world, with significant import duties on electronics and other goods. For instance, imported smartphones are subject to tariffs of up to 20%, which makes it challenging for companies like Apple to compete with local players like Xiaomi and Samsung, who manufacture in India.

 

 

 

Trump cited these barriers, stating, “It is very hard to sell in India.” Despite this, Apple has been expanding its manufacturing footprint in the country, producing iPhones at facilities in Bengaluru and Chennai to avoid tariffs and appeal to the growing Indian market.

Comparing Policies: India vs. Other Nations

Trump contrasted India’s tariff regime with countries like China and DC (likely referring to Washington, D.C.), which have offered more favorable terms for US businesses. “They offered us a deal where they agreed to charge us literally no tariffs,” Trump said, referencing other nations’ willingness to facilitate American goods and services.

 

 

 

Trump’s Push for US-Centric Manufacturing

The US President also used the platform to highlight his administration’s efforts to encourage domestic manufacturing. Apple, for instance, recently announced plans to expand its facilities in Texas, producing the Mac Pro in Austin. Trump views these moves as aligned with his “America First” agenda, which prioritizes job creation and economic growth within the US.

 

 

 

Trump reminded Cook of past accommodations, stating, “We put up with all the plants you built in China for years.” He emphasized that future investments should focus on boosting the American economy, rather than targeting markets like India.

India’s Growing Importance to Apple

Despite Trump’s remarks, India remains a critical market for Apple. The company has been investing heavily in the region, opening its first retail stores in Mumbai and Delhi earlier this year. With a growing middle class and increasing smartphone adoption, India represents a significant growth opportunity, especially as Apple seeks to diversify beyond China.

 

Trump’s comments could strain US-India economic relations, particularly as both countries engage in trade negotiations. They also highlight the balancing act companies like Apple face when navigating geopolitical pressures while pursuing global expansion.

For now, Apple’s strategy appears to remain focused on both strengthening its US operations and leveraging opportunities in high-growth markets like India, despite Trump’s criticism.