New Delhi, India – In a monumental shift for the global technology supply chain, Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that the majority of iPhones sold in the United States during the last quarter were manufactured in India. This announcement, made during a post-quarterly earnings call, signals a significant realignment of Apple’s manufacturing strategy away from its long-standing dependence on China.
According to Cook, India has now become the primary hub for iPhone production for the American market. This strategic pivot comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and the company’s broader effort to diversify its supply chain. While India takes the lead for iPhones destined for the US, Cook clarified the new roles of other key manufacturing locations:
- China will now primarily focus on producing Apple products for non-US international markets.
- Vietnam has emerged as the main production base for other Apple devices sold in the US, including MacBooks, iPads, and Apple Watches.
This move has not been without controversy. The shift has drawn criticism from President Donald Trump, who has publicly voiced his opposition to Apple moving production out of China and into India. Despite this political pressure, Cook’s statements underscore Apple’s bullish stance on India, not just as a manufacturing base, but also as a rapidly growing and vital consumer market.
Cook highlighted that Apple is experiencing record revenue growth in India, driven by strong iPhone sales. He noted that the company saw double-digit growth in emerging markets, including India, and set revenue records in more than two dozen countries. In line with this growth, Apple also plans to expand its retail footprint by opening more physical stores across the country.
The company’s decision to ramp up manufacturing in India is also a response to evolving global trade policies. While smartphones currently remain exempt from certain tariffs, Cook acknowledged that Apple is bracing for tariff-related costs, with an estimated impact of about $1.1 billion in the coming quarter.
Apple’s commitment to “Make in India” marks a new chapter for the company, solidifying the country’s rising importance in the global technology landscape. This strategic diversification not only mitigates risks but also capitalizes on India’s growing market, cementing its role as a key player in the future of Apple’s global operations.