Donald Trump has threatened a 25% tariff on smartphones made outside the US, targeting companies like Apple and Samsung.
He criticised Apple’s shift to India and told them to build in America or pay extra.
Trump made these remarks on Truth Social and directly to Apple CEO Tim Cook during a meeting in Qatar, stressing that US-made phones are the only acceptable option.
Tim Cook explained that most iPhones sold in the US will soon be made in India due to a lack of skilled engineers in the US.
Experts warn that building in the US would drastically increase costs — possibly making iPhones cost over USD 3,500.
Trump’s move, though aimed at boosting local manufacturing, may actually lead to steep inflation in electronics prices.
As prices rise, public frustration could grow. Analysts say Trump’s tariff policy could backfire, shifting public anger toward him and triggering backlash for worsening inflation and hurting consumers.
