Apple airlifts over 1M iPhones from India to US to dodge taxes

Apple is storing up products as taxes on goods from China reach 125%.

Apple has ramped up its iPhone shipments from India to the United States, reportedly airlifting more than 1.5 million units in an effort to avoid newly announced tariffs. According to Reuters, the company has used six cargo jets, each with a capacity of around 100 tons, since March to expedite the process.

Fast-Tracking Shipments to Beat U.S. Tariffs

The move comes in response to President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 26% tariff on imports from India. Although the tariffs have since been paused for India and nearly 60 other countries for 90 days, Apple is proactively building U.S. inventory to avoid future disruptions.

To speed things up, Apple successfully lobbied Indian airport authorities to cut down customs clearance times at local airports from 30 hours to just six.

Diversifying Beyond China

Currently, Apple manufactures about 90% of its iPhones in China. However, with growing geopolitical and trade tensions, the tech giant is actively diversifying its production base. India is a key part of this strategy.

By 2027, Apple aims to produce more than 50 million iPhones annually in India—around 25% of its global production. For 2025, Apple is expected to build approximately 25 million iPhones in India. If all of those units were sold in the U.S., they could meet nearly half of the country’s yearly demand.

Market Reaction and Strategic Gains

Despite the tariff turmoil, Apple shares jumped 15% this week, adding $400 billion to the company’s market value. The stock surge followed news of the 90-day tariff reprieve and investor optimism around Apple’s quick logistical pivot.

Apple’s swift response highlights its growing dependence on India not just as a manufacturing hub, but also as a strategic lever to navigate global trade uncertainties.