Apple Expands iPhone 17 Production in India Amid U.S.-India Trade Tensions

Apple is accelerating its manufacturing footprint in India, with five factories now gearing up for iPhone 17 production. This expansion comes as U.S.-India trade relations grow increasingly strained over New Delhi's alleged resale of discounted Russian oil. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent accused India of "profiteering" from the Ukraine conflict, warning of impending secondary tariffs.

The geopolitical friction intensified as former President Donald TRUMP reinstated 50% tariffs on Indian imports earlier this month, with threats to escalate to 100% if trade with Russia continues. Meanwhile, Apple's strategic pivot to India appears undeterred by the trade tensions, signaling confidence in the country's manufacturing potential despite Washington's hardening stance.