Trump demands Apple move iPhone production to US or face 25% tariff

US President Donald Trump has warned of a 25% tariff on all imported iPhones bought by US consumers. In addition, the possible 50% tariff on goods coming from the EU is under further negotiations.

“I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhone’s 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 on Truth Social. “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 warning to Apple persists in President Trump's efforts to pressure companies to move production to the US.

Last Friday, Trump told reporters the tariff would also apply to other companies like Samsung and take effect at the end of June, stating it must be fair to all manufacturers of the product.

EU tariffs

Elsewhere President Trump posted that he has been informed that the EU has now set meeting dates to resume trade negotiations between the US and the EU regarding the proposed 50% tariff on imports.

“I was extremely satisfied with the 50% Tariff allotment on the European Union, especially since they were ‘slow walking’ (to put it mildly!), our negotiations with them," said Trump. “Remember, I am empowered to ‘set a deal’ for Trade into the United States if we are unable to make a deal, or are treated unfairly. 

“I have just been informed that the EU has called to quickly establish meeting dates. This is a positive event, and I hope that they will, finally, like my same demand to China, open up the European Nations for Trade with the United States of America. They will both be very happy, and successful, if they do!!!"

This comes after Trump accused the EU of exploiting the US through trade barriers, taxes, and lawsuits, claiming a $250 billion annual trade deficit. Trump then stalled negotiations and proposed a 50% tariff on EU goods starting June 1st, 2025 - excluding products made in the US.

Global stock markets earlier in the year saw declines following the fallout of Trump’s tariffs and just last month Apple airlifted almost $2 billion worth of iPhones from suppliers in India to the United States as it looked to get ahead of tariffs.