Apple’s Record-Breaking Export Surge As US Tariffs Loom

In a bold move to avoid looming tariffs under President Donald Trump’s trade regime, Apple executed an unprecedented airlift of $1.9 billion worth of iPhones from India in March.

The operation, which spanned across models like the iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16, saw Apple’s suppliers Foxconn and Tata Electronics spearheading the export effort, marking a key moment in India’s growing importance as an electronics manufacturing hub.

Foxconn Leads The Charge

Foxconn, Apple’s largest supplier in India, accounted for the lion’s share of the shipments.

With $1.31 billion worth of smartphones airlifted in March, this export surge was more than double its January and February combined exports, according to customs data reviewed by Reuters.

At least six cargo jets mobilized to ensure the timely arrival of iPhones in major US cities, including Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.

They drove this logistics feat to bypass new tariffs on Chinese goods and secure Apple’s inventory.

Tata Electronics Joins The Push

Tata Electronics, another key supplier, also saw a significant rise in exports, with a 63% increase compared to February, reaching $612 million in March.

This surge included newer models like the iPhone 15 and 16, showcasing the growing role of Indian manufacturers in Apple’s global supply chain.

A Tactical Move To Beat Tariffs

Apple took action to avoid delays by asking Indian authorities to speed up the customs clearance process at Chennai Airport, cutting the waiting time from 30 hours to just six.

The aim was to get the goods through quickly before Trump’s tariffs were applied.

Trump’s Tariff Rollback

While Trump initially imposed a 26% tariff on imports from India, the US government soon rolled back most of these duties, providing a reprieve for Apple and others.

By mid-April, Apple’s India-made iPhones enjoyed a 20% tariff advantage over Chinese imports, as tariffs remained on Chinese goods.

India’s emerging role as a manufacturing hub is now undeniable.

In 2024–25, mobile phone exports from India crossed ₹2 lakh crore, a 55% increase from the previous year.

This surge underscores India’s growing role in the global tech industry.

Of this, iPhone exports alone generated ₹1.5 lakh crore, further highlighting India’s increasing importance in global tech supply chains.

A Window Of Opportunity

Despite the temporary tariff exemptions, industry experts warn that this window may be short-lived.

Ashok Chandak, president of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association (IESA), emphasized the need for India to capitalize on this moment to scale up its manufacturing capabilities.

For Apple, this move aligns with its long-term strategy to diversify its supply chain and reduce reliance on China.

With government support and logistical agility, India is increasingly becoming the backbone of Apple’s global operations, providing a stable foundation amidst the ongoing US-China trade tensions.

Apple is positioning its growing Indian operations to weather future trade disruptions.

However, as experts point out, the true challenge will be adapting to the evolving dynamics of global supply chains and ensuring long-term sustainability beyond temporary tariff relief.

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