Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again made headlines with his direct and often controversial commentary—this time, targeting Apple CEO Tim Cook over the company’s growing investments in India.
In a recent statement, Trump revealed a tense exchange with the Apple chief:
“I had a little problem with Tim Cook yesterday. I said to him, ‘Tim, you’re my friend. I treated you very good. You’re coming in with $500 billion. But now I hear you’re building all over India. I don’t want you building in India.'”
The remarks reflect Trump’s ongoing “America First” stance, emphasizing that U.S.-based companies should prioritize American jobs and manufacturing rather than outsourcing operations overseas.
His frustration appears rooted in recent reports of Apple ramping up iPhone production in India—a strategic move to diversify supply chains beyond China and reduce dependency on a single region.
Major Highlights
- Donald Trump criticized Apple CEO Tim Cook for expanding operations in India, despite their strong business relationship.
- Trump’s exact words: “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.”
- Trump referred to Apple’s $500 billion economic commitment to the U.S., questioning why the company is outsourcing to India.
- Apple is increasing production in India, aiming to shift 25% of iPhone manufacturing there by 2025.
- The move is part of Apple’s strategy to diversify its supply chain beyond China and tap into India’s growing market.
- Trump’s comments reinforce his “America First” economic policy, urging U.S. companies to prioritize domestic jobs and manufacturing.
Apple’s India Push: What’s Happening?
Over the past year, Apple has significantly expanded its manufacturing presence in India, partnering with suppliers like Foxconn, Wistron, and Pegatron.
The move aligns with India’s goal to become a global manufacturing hub and offers Apple access to a cost-effective and rapidly growing market.
According to estimates, Apple is expected to shift 25% of global iPhone production to India by 2025, drawing both praise and concern across political circles.
Trump’s Take: National Loyalty Over Global Strategy
Trump’s comments suggest that despite Apple’s massive economic footprint in the U.S., including a promised $500 billion contribution to the American economy, he believes the tech giant should show more loyalty to its home country.
While Apple has not officially responded to Trump’s statement, the tension underscores a broader debate:
Should American companies prioritize national economic interests, or focus on global efficiency and market expansion?
The Bigger Picture
Trump’s remarks are likely to resonate with voters and policymakers who fear the long-term impact of outsourcing on American jobs.
However, global companies like Apple must constantly navigate complex trade-offs between cost, scale, and geopolitical risk.
As the 2024 U.S. election cycle heats up, expect more such high-profile confrontations—especially as Trump continues to position himself as the champion of American industry.