Neither Apple nor CEO Tim Cook has responded publicly to the remarks as of this writing.

Former US President Donald Trump issued a strong statement on Thursday via his Truth Social platform, calling on Apple Inc. to shift iPhone production to the United States. In the post, Trump claimed he had previously informed Apple CEO Tim Cook of his expectations and warned that devices manufactured outside the US, including in India, should be subject to a substantial import tariff.

“I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhones that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else,” Trump wrote. “If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the US. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”

The post immediately sparked reactions across political and economic spheres, reigniting debates over trade policy, domestic manufacturing, and tech industry practices. Apple, which has increasingly diversified its supply chain away from China, has ramped up production in India in recent years, with the country becoming a key hub for assembling iPhones intended for both domestic and international markets.

Neither Apple nor CEO Tim Cook has responded publicly to the remarks as of this writing.

The former president has long advocated for reshoring US manufacturing and has previously targeted companies outsourcing production overseas. During his presidency, Apple faced similar pressure, though the company maintained that its global supply chain was essential for meeting demand and managing costs.