Apple first, now Samsung, Donald Trump threatens 25% tariff on devices made outside US:
Imagine paying 25% more for your next iPhone. That could soon be a reality. Former President Donald Trump is back in the headlines, this time aiming his economic firepower at tech giants like Apple and Samsung — and he’s not mincing words.
“If Apple wants to sell iPhones in the USA, they need to make them in the USA,” Trump declared on Truth Social.
So, what’s happening? Why now? And most importantly, what does this mean for your favorite gadgets?
Let’s break it down.
📦 What Did Trump Actually Say?
In a post that quickly went viral on Truth Social, Trump warned Apple CEO Tim Cook that unless iPhones are manufactured in the United States, the company would face a minimum 25% tariff. He didn’t stop at Apple — he named Samsung and others too.
“A Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the U.S.,” Trump emphasized. “Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
He later doubled down in a press briefing, saying the tariffs could begin by the end of June.
🔍 Why This Matters (Hint: It’s Not Just About Apple)
Apple isn’t the only company potentially affected. Samsung, and any tech brand making smartphones abroad, could also get hit with this tariff.
This move comes just days after reports emerged about Apple expanding production in India, not the U.S. In fact, Apple’s primary supplier, Foxconn, is pouring $1.5 billion into a new display plant in Chennai, India.
Trump’s response? Not on my watch.
“He said he’s going to India to build plants… you’re not going to sell into here without tariffs,” Trump said about Cook.
📈 Could This Really Affect iPhone Prices?
Absolutely — and not just iPhones. A 25% tariff means Apple and others would either:
- Eat the cost, which could shrink profits, or
- Pass the cost to customers, making devices a lot more expensive.
Think your $1,000 iPhone is pricey now? Add 25%, and you’re looking at $1,250 or more.
📌 Quick Answer (Featured Snippet):
If Trump’s proposed 25% tariff goes into effect, U.S. consumers may see iPhone and smartphone prices rise significantly unless manufacturers shift production to the U.S.
🌍 Why Apple’s Not Moving Production Home Anytime Soon
Even with Trump’s threats, Apple has a problem: building iPhones in the U.S. just isn’t feasible — at least not at scale.
While Apple plans to invest $500 billion in the U.S. over four years, experts say the supply chain, skilled labor, and infrastructure needed for iPhone production are still rooted in Asia.
Let’s not forget what Steve Jobs once told President Obama:
“Those jobs aren’t coming back.”
And here’s the twist: Apple is still technically within current global trade rules. While China faces up to 30% tariffs, India — Apple’s new favorite — only sees a 10% baseline tariff.
So from Apple’s point of view, shifting production out of China to India is a smart risk hedge, not a political snub.
🧠 What Does This Mean for You?
This isn’t just a policy debate — it’s something that could hit your wallet and your next phone upgrade.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Higher smartphone prices, possibly by late summer.
- Slower product launches, if companies hesitate to import.
- More tech companies diversifying production outside China.
🗣️ Final Thoughts: Is This a Tech War or Just Trump Being Trump?
Trump’s 2025 rhetoric sounds a lot like his 2018 trade war days — bold, protectionist, and high-stakes.
Whether it’s a real threat or a negotiation tactic remains to be seen. But for now, Apple, Samsung, and anyone who enjoys a sleek new gadget might want to keep a close eye on June.
Because one thing’s for sure — if these tariffs stick, the cost of being tech-savvy in America is about to get a lot higher.
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