In a significant move reflecting its evolving global manufacturing strategy, Apple exported approximately 11.5 million iPhones from India to the United States between January and April 2025. This surge underscores Apple’s efforts to diversify its production base beyond China, amid escalating geopolitical tensions and trade challenges.India Briefing
According to data from market research firm Canalys, Apple’s iPhone exports from India to the U.S. in April alone reached about 3 million units, marking a 76% increase compared to the same month in the previous year. Conversely, iPhone shipments from China to the U.S. plummeted by 76% during the same period, totaling just 900,000 units .
This strategic pivot is largely attributed to the U.S. administration’s imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports. President Donald Trump has threatened a 25% tariff on Apple and Samsung devices not manufactured domestically, pressuring companies to relocate production to the U.S. . In response, Apple has accelerated its manufacturing operations in India to mitigate potential tariff impacts.
India’s role in Apple’s supply chain has grown substantially. In the fiscal year 2023-24, Apple’s iPhone exports from India nearly doubled to $12.1 billion, up from $6.27 billion the previous year . This growth is bolstered by the Indian government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which offers financial incentives to companies increasing local manufacturing.Business StandardIndia Briefing+4Business Standard+4www.ndtv.com+4
Key Apple suppliers, including Foxconn, Pegatron, and Tata Electronics, have expanded their operations in India. Foxconn, for instance, has invested $1.5 billion in a display module assembly facility near Chennai, Tamil Nadu, expected to create approximately 14,000 jobs .
Apple’s intensified focus on Indian manufacturing is also evident in its logistical strategies. To expedite shipments and circumvent potential tariff hikes, Apple reportedly airlifted around 600 tons (approximately 1.5 million units) of iPhones from India to the U.S. in early 2025 .Reuters+1The Sun+1
Analysts suggest that while Apple’s shift to Indian manufacturing is a strategic move to reduce dependency on China, challenges remain. India’s current production capacity may not fully meet U.S. demand, which averages around 20 million iPhones per quarter. However, with ongoing investments and infrastructure development, India’s contribution to global iPhone production is projected to rise from 18% in 2024 to 32% by 2025 .New York Post+1India Today+1Financial Times
In summary, Apple’s export of 11.5 million iPhones from India to the U.S. in the first four months of 2025 marks a significant shift in its manufacturing strategy, highlighting India’s emerging role as a pivotal hub in Apple’s global supply chain.
