Key Facts
• May 23, 2025: Trump warns Apple of 25% tariff on non-U.S.-made iPhones.
• Trump stated iPhones sold in the U.S. should be manufactured domestically.
• Apple shares dropped 2.5% in pre-market trading after Trump’s statement.
• Apple has not responded to Reuters’ request for comment.
• Apple plans to produce most U.S.-sold iPhones in India by Q2 2025.
• Trump’s authority to impose tariffs on individual companies remains unclear.
Summary
On May 23, 2025, former U.S. President Donald Trump warned Apple that iPhones sold in the U.S. must be manufactured domestically or face a 25% tariff. Trump emphasized this expectation in a social media post, referencing prior discussions with Apple CEO Tim Cook. Following his remarks, Apple’s stock fell 2.5% in pre-market trading. Apple has yet to comment on the matter. The company has been shifting production to India, with projections indicating that most iPhones sold in the U.S. during Q2 2025 will be India-made. However, it remains uncertain whether Trump has the authority to impose tariffs on individual companies. This development highlights ongoing tensions over global manufacturing and trade policies.
