Jobaaj Stories
Apple Rushes 1.5 Million iPhones to U.S. to Beat New Trump Tariffs
Tech giant Apple has reportedly airlifted around 600 tons of iPhones—roughly 1.5 million units—from India to the United States in a quiet effort to stay ahead of sharply rising import tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.
The move comes as Apple steps up production in India, signaling a shift away from its heavy reliance on China, where U.S. tariffs have now soared to an eye-popping 125%.
A Strategic Move to Protect U.S. Inventory
According to sources familiar with the matter, Apple chartered six massive cargo jets, each capable of carrying around 100 tons, to fly the devices out of Chennai, India. The iPhones arrived just in time, coinciding with the activation of new tariff rates that would have significantly increased prices on Chinese-made devices.
Apple reportedly worked with Indian authorities to fast-track customs clearance at Chennai airport, cutting wait times from 30 hours to just six. The expedited process is modeled after Apple's “green corridor” logistics used at Chinese airports to ensure quick turnaround times for exports.
Why Apple Shifted Supply to India
The U.S. tariffs on imports from China jumped from 54% to 125%, which would have drastically increased retail prices for American customers. For example, under the new tariff, a $1,599 iPhone 16 Pro Max could cost up to $2,300.
In contrast, tariffs on imports from India remain at a much lower 26%—and are temporarily paused for the next 90 days, thanks to a recent decision by President Trump that exempts Indian imports, giving companies like Apple a limited-time window to act.
India’s Growing Role in iPhone Production
Apple now manufactures about 20% of the iPhones it sells in the U.S. in India, with the rest still coming from China. The shift not only helps Apple reduce its dependence on China but also supports its long-term strategy to diversify supply chains amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
While Apple and India’s aviation ministry have not officially commented on the airlifts, the move reflects how multinational companies are adapting rapidly to changing trade policies.
