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Former President Donald Trump has publicly criticized Apple CEO Tim Cook over the company's growing shift in iPhone production to India.

Speaking during an event in Qatar on Thursday, Trump expressed frustration, saying he wanted Apple to build its products in the United States—not overseas.

"I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday," Trump said. "I said to him, 'Tim, you're my friend. I treated you very good. But now I hear you're building all over India. I don't want you building in India.'"

Apple has been increasing its production in India to avoid high tariffs and reduce reliance on China.

CEO Tim Cook recently stated that most iPhones sold in the US would soon be made in India.

According to CNN, this shift helps Apple manage rising production costs, including a possible $900 million increase this quarter due to tariffs.

While Apple has plans to invest $500 billion in US operations over the next four years—creating around 20,000 jobs—Trump believes more should be done.

Tim highlighted the importance of manufacturing Apple products at home, saying, "We want you to build here."

Apple Faces Pressure as Trump Defends US Industry

The former president has long supported US manufacturing and has imposed tariffs on goods from countries like China and India. He argues these tariffs help protect American workers and industries.

Trump noted that India has been one of the highest tariff countries in the world but recently offered the US a deal with no tariffs.

Despite Apple's efforts to increase US investments, experts say bringing full iPhone production to America is unlikely.

The complex supply chain and higher labor costs would make it difficult. According to industry analysts, the price of an iPhone could rise dramatically if Apple moved its manufacturing operations to the United States.

Estimates suggest the cost could increase to somewhere between $1,500 and $3,500 per device, NBC News said.

Currently, Apple makes only a few products in America, including the Mac Pro and some server equipment for its AI system, Apple Intelligence, at a plant in Texas.

Apple has not responded publicly to Trump's remarks. Meanwhile, its main partner in India, Foxconn, has received government approval to build a semiconductor plant in a joint venture with HCL Group—further deepening its presence in the region.

Tags

Donald Trump, Tim cook, Iphone