In a dramatic move to get ahead of looming U.S. tariffs, Apple has airlifted approximately 600 tons of iPhones—equivalent to around 1.5 million devices—from India to the United States, according to a report by Reuters. The unprecedented shipment is part of the tech giant’s effort to stabilize supply and avoid potential price hikes that could affect American consumers.
The airlift comes as President Donald Trump considers imposing new tariffs on key trading partners, including China, India, and Vietnam—all of which are critical to Apple’s global supply chain. Though Apple still manufactures the bulk of its iPhones in China, the company has recently ramped up production in India as part of its diversification strategy.
Facing the possibility of higher import costs on its marquee product, Apple chartered cargo flights to move the massive shipment from India to the U.S. The company also reportedly pressured Indian officials to expedite export processes, successfully lobbying for customs clearance at Chennai International Airport to be cut from 30 hours to just six.
The move highlights both the fragility of international supply chains and the lengths Apple is willing to go to maintain inventory and protect profit margins. With tariffs threatening to raise prices on consumer electronics, Apple’s efforts aim to keep devices on shelves—and prices stable—as demand continues to surge.
The company has not publicly commented on the report, but the action underscores growing tension between global trade policies and the tech industry’s reliance on cross-border manufacturing.