Apple plans to source its entire US iPhone supply—approximately 60 million devices annually—from India by the end of 2026, according to the Financial Times. The US accounts for 28% of Apple’s global shipments, and this shift would require doubling India’s current iPhone output through key partners like Foxconn and Tata Electronics.
Trump Tariffs Spark Urgency in Supply Chain Realignment
The move follows steep tariffs—up to 145%—imposed by the Trump administration on Chinese imports. Although iPhones remain exempt for now, the looming risk of future restrictions has prompted Apple to speed up its production diversification away from China.
India’s Green Corridor Enables Faster Exports to the US
Since March, Apple has shipped around 1.5 million iPhones—roughly 600 tons—via six chartered flights from India to the US. In collaboration with Indian authorities, Apple established a “green corridor” at Chennai airport, slashing customs clearance times from 30 hours to just 6, enabling faster delivery to American shelves.
China Blocks Apple’s Transition with Equipment Delays
Despite Apple’s shift, China isn’t backing down. Reports from The Information claim Chinese authorities are stalling or outright blocking iPhone equipment exports to India. Approval times have jumped from two weeks to four months, with some suppliers forced to set up front companies in Southeast Asia to bypass restrictions.
Foxconn Trains Indian Workforce, iPhone 17 May Be First Fully-Made-in-India Model
Foxconn, Apple’s key contract manufacturer, is training thousands in Tamil Nadu. Experts believe the iPhone 17 could be the first model entirely designed and assembled in India, marking a new chapter in Apple’s manufacturing evolution.
Apple’s Long-Term Goal: Reduce China Dependence by Half
Currently, about 20% of iPhones are made in India. Apple reportedly aims to shift 50% of its global iPhone production out of China in the coming years, representing a significant strategic pivot after nearly two decades of relying on Chinese manufacturing infrastructure.
