Apple has shipped five planeloads of iPhones and other products from India to the United States to overcome new import tariffs introduced by the U.S. government. The shipments, completed over three days in late March, were timed to beat the April 5 deadline when a new 10% reciprocal tariff came into effect under the Trump administration’s trade policy.
The new tariff targets imports from key manufacturing countries, including China and India. Apple’s accelerated shipping initiative was designed to shield its U.S. operations from immediate financial strain and preserve retail pricing stability. By stockpiling inventory in its U.S. warehouses ahead of the deadline, Apple aims to ensure that sufficient supplies remain available at current pricing levels for the coming months.
Tariff disparities have made India an increasingly attractive hub for Apple’s manufacturing and export operations. While exports from China are now subject to a steep 54% tariff, Indian exports face a lower 26% levy. Apple’s growing reliance on India is also supported by government initiatives like the ‘Make in India’ campaign and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which have enabled the company to expand both production and exports from the country.
Despite the new tariffs, Apple has no immediate plans to raise retail prices in the U.S. or other markets. The company is carefully assessing the implications of varying tariff regimes across its manufacturing bases and adjusting its global supply chain strategy accordingly. However, industry analysts note that prolonged cost pressures could eventually ripple into other markets, including India.
India’s electronics sector has emerged as a key beneficiary of Apple’s expansion. The country now accounts for nearly $9 billion in smartphone exports to the U.S., with Apple playing a major role in driving this figure. Analysts predict that by 2025, as much as 25% of global iPhone production could take place in India.
However, front-loading shipments ahead of tariff deadlines may result in a temporary dip in export activity in the following quarter. Exporters have cautioned that trade volumes between April and June might slow as inventories stabilize.
Apple’s latest move underscores its strategic adaptability in a shifting global trade environment. By increasing its reliance on India and diversifying its manufacturing base, the company aims to minimise the risks posed by geopolitical and regulatory challenges. Additional investment in India is expected as part of Apple’s broader long-term supply chain diversification strategy.
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