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Apple Airlifts 1.5 Million iPhones from India to Dodge Trump’s China Tariffs
The tech giant is racing against time—and tariffs. As Trump’s 125% tariff on Chinese goods kicks in, Apple turns to India, where tariffs are lower and paused for 90 days.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-10
Apple Airlifts 1.5 Million iPhones from India to Dodge Trump’s China Tariffs

In a bold move to sidestep the brunt of President Donald Trump’s aggressive 125% tariff on Chinese imports, Apple has chartered cargo flights to transport 600 tons—or approximately 1.5 million iPhones—from India to the U.S., sources told Reuters.

With Apple increasingly diversifying production outside China, India is emerging as a key manufacturing hub. iPhones made in India face a significantly lower tariff of 26%—now on hold after a 90-day pause by Trump, excluding China.

To streamline the process, Apple reportedly negotiated with Chennai airport authorities in Tamil Nadu to reduce customs clearance from 30 hours to just six, setting up a “green corridor” similar to operations it already runs in China.

Six cargo jets, each with a capacity of 100 tons, have flown out since March. One flight coincided with the activation of Trump’s new tariff hike. Each iPhone weighs roughly 350 grams with packaging, aligning with the estimated 600-ton shipment.

India now accounts for roughly 20% of all iPhone imports to the U.S., with China still handling the majority. With tariffs in flux and supply chains shifting, this airlift is a clear signal of Apple’s urgency in securing its U.S. inventory.
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Apple

iphones

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