Apple has reportedly chartered cargo flights to transport 600 tons of iPhones, potentially 1.5 million units, from India to the United States, aiming to circumvent potential tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, according to sources familiar with the matter.
This move reveals Apple’s strategic efforts to bolster its iPhone inventory in the U.S., a key market, by leveraging its expanding production capabilities in India.
The company’s decision comes as analysts warned of potential price surges for iPhones in the U.S. due to heavy reliance on Chinese manufacturing, which faces a 125% tariff rate. In contrast, imports from India face a 26% tariff, currently on hold following a 90-day pause announced by Trump.
“Apple wanted to beat the tariff,” a source stated, highlighting the company’s proactive approach.
To expedite shipments, Apple reportedly lobbied Indian airport authorities to reduce customs clearance time at Chennai airport from 30 hours to six, mirroring practices at Chinese airports. Since March, approximately six cargo jets, each carrying 100 tons, have been deployed.
The 600-ton shipment, considering the weight of iPhones and packaging, suggests a delivery of about 1.5 million units.
Apple’s strategic shift to increase production in India includes extending operations at Foxconn’s Chennai plant to Sundays, a typically non-operational day, to achieve a 20% production increase. The plant, which produced 20 million iPhones last year, is crucial to Apple’s diversification strategy away from China.
The company’s efforts to streamline logistics in India involved eight months of planning and received support from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government.
Customs data indicates a significant increase in Foxconn’s shipments from India to the U.S. in January and February, with major U.S. cities being the primary destinations.
Apple, the Indian Aviation Ministry, and Foxconn have not provided official comments on these developments.
This move underscores Apple’s strategic efforts to mitigate tariff risks and strengthen its supply chain diversification amid ongoing trade tensions.
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