United States: Apple has announced a major shift in its manufacturing strategy, moving production of most iPhones and other key products destined for the US market out of China.
The company will now rely more heavily on India and Vietnam in response to ongoing US-China trade tensions and the impact of President Donald Trump’s tariff policies.
According to Apple CEO Tim Cook, the majority of iPhones sold in the United States in the coming months will be manufactured in India. Meanwhile, Vietnam will become the main production hub for iPads, Mac computers, Apple Watches, and AirPods sold in the US.
The move follows estimates that US import tariffs could add approximately $900 million to Apple’s costs in the current quarter, even though key electronics like smartphones and computers were eventually spared from the latest round of tariffs.
While the Trump administration has long encouraged US companies to bring manufacturing back to American soil, Apple has chosen to diversify its supply chain instead, shifting operations to countries seen as more stable with trade disputes.
Mr. Cook remarked that, “China will remain the country of origin for the vast majority of total products sold outside the US.” However, he emphasised the company’s commitment to the American market, opening the call by reiterating Apple’s pledge to invest $500 billion across several US states over the next four years.
Industry analysts have called the supply chain pivot impressive, marking a significant departure from Apple’s previous stance that only China had the manufacturing capability to produce iPhones at scale.
The changes come as global companies respond to a rapidly evolving trade landscape, driven in part by Washington’s policies. Apple’s rival Amazon also reported resilient performance despite the tariff environment. The eCommerce giant said it’s North American sales rose 8 percent year-on-year in the most recent quarter, and it expects similar growth ahead.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy acknowledged the uncertainty but expressed confidence in the company’s ability to adapt. Amazon is also taking steps to boost supply chain resilience by diversifying its seller base. Executives suggested the company may have even benefited slightly from consumers stockpiling in response to economic uncertainty.
Despite the trade headwinds, both companies reported strong financial results. Apple’s revenue for the first three months of 2025 rose 5 percent year-on-year to $95.4 billion. Amazon posted even stronger numbers, with overall sales up 9 percent to $155.7 billion and profits soaring more than 60 percent to roughly $17 billion.
As companies brace for continued geopolitical shifts, the tech sector’s performance suggests that adaptability and diversification remain key to navigating uncertain economic waters.
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