Apple Starts Full iPhone 17 Production in India for U.S. Market Despite Trump Tariffs
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Apple is embarking on a landmark expansion in India: for the first time, the entire iPhone 17 series—including the Pro and Pro Max variants—will be manufactured in India for the U.S. market. This shift signals a significant diversification of Apple’s supply chain beyond China, with production spread across five Indian factories, two of which are newly operational.
The strategy reflects Apple’s intention to reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing for U.S.-bound exports. Most iPhone subassemblies are still sourced from China, but final assembly—and increasingly complex operations—are being consolidated in India.
Despite ongoing trade tensions and threats from U.S. President Donald Trump—including a 50% tariff on Indian goods amid concerns over Russian oil imports—iPhones made in India remain exempt from these tariffs, shielding Apple and allowing continued exports.
The ramp-up of production is already translating into export growth. Between April and July 2025, India shipped $7.5 billion worth of iPhones, nearly half of the total for the previous full fiscal year.
Apple’s move underscores India’s rising position as a global technology manufacturing hub. States like Tamil Nadu, backed by firms like Foxconn and Tata, are emerging as key centers, further earned credibility through India’s “China plus one” strategy.
In summary, Apple’s new staging in India for iPhone 17 production reaffirms the nation’s strategic importance within its global operations. By insulating exports from punitive tariffs and boosting domestic manufacturing, Apple—and India—stand to benefit from a more resilient and diversified supply chain.
