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WASHINGTON D.C. – Future Apple products, including the iPhone 17, could see a significant iPhone 17 price increase. US President Donald Trump has threatened Apple with new tariffs. The tariffs target Apple for not manufacturing its devices primarily in the United States. Consumers may ultimately bear these costs.
Trump Details Tariff Demands on Apple, EU
President Trump stated he is “recommending” a 50% tariff on goods from the European Union, starting June 1. He also specifically addressed Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook. “I have long ago informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhone’s that will be sold in the United States of America will be manufactured and built in the United States, not India, or anyplace else,” Trump posted on his social media site, Truth. “If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the U.S.” These proposed Trump Apple tariffs could affect iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
US Manufacturing Shift Also Costly for Apple
If Apple pays the 25% tariff, the cost of iPhones would likely rise for buyers. Alternatively, if Apple moved its iPhone manufacturing entirely to the US, this would also probably lead to higher prices. Such a shift would involve huge initial setup expenses. Long lead times and ongoing US iPhone manufacturing labor costs would add further financial pressure. Apple might then need to increase the prices of existing and upcoming products. The next major Apple launches expected are the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Air. Both could launch with higher prices if these tariffs proceed.
Broader Tech Market Could Feel Tariff Impact
Previous aggressive tariff proposals by the Trump administration caused significant market disruption. For instance, US pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 were affected as Nintendo considered potential price changes. Retaliatory tariffs from other countries also created problems. Current tariff discussions could make business in the US more difficult for international companies. Samsung, for example, manufactures its devices outside America. Trump’s tariffs could make importing products like the Galaxy S25 and the likely Samsung Galaxy S26 more expensive. This would probably lead Samsung to raise its device prices, passing the cost to consumers. With inflation already affecting many product costs, these new tariffs could further push tech prices up. Apple has not yet officially responded to these latest tariff threats.
By Abiodun Labi
Culled: Techradar
