Apple airlifts 1.5 Million iPhones from India to U.S. to Dodge Trump tariffs: Report

In a bold move to counter steep tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, Apple has reportedly airlifted 1.5 million iPhones—roughly 600 tons—from India to the United States.

According to a Reuters report, the tech giant has ramped up production at its Foxconn facility in Chennai, India, and arranged for six cargo flights since March to ship out iPhones swiftly. Each iPhone 14, including packaging and charging cable, weighs around 350 grams.

The urgency comes as Trump’s tariff on Chinese-made smartphones has soared to 125%, while Indian imports are temporarily spared due to a 90-day global pause on trade penalties—excluding China. In contrast, India faces a lower 26% tariff.

To fast-track exports, Apple has reportedly urged Indian airport officials to cut customs clearance times at Chennai airport from 30 hours to just six. The Modi government is said to be supportive, encouraging local authorities to assist Apple in its rapid export efforts.

The Foxconn plant is now operating seven days a week, even on Sundays, to meet the growing demand. Last year, the Chennai facility produced 20 million iPhones, including the latest iPhone 15 and 16 models.

With the U.S. market at risk of seeing a price hike on iPhones due to tariff pressures, Apple is hedging its bets by shifting more of its supply chain to India. Counterpoint Research estimates that about 20% of Apple’s U.S.-bound iPhones now originate from India, up significantly from previous years.

While the report has not been independently verified by HT.com, the developments underscore India’s growing role in Apple’s global manufacturing strategy.