In a strategic move to sidestep potential trade penalties, Apple transported close to $2 billion worth of iPhones from India to the United States in March. Fearing that Indian goods might soon face steep duties similar to the 100 %+ tariffs imposed on Chinese imports, the company airlifted over 600 tons of devices to safeguard its U.S. supply.
Reuters’ customs data reveals that Apple significantly increased its manufacturing output in India and swiftly launched an air cargo initiative, deploying at least six jets to deliver the smartphones. Anticipating rising import costs under Trump’s tariff agenda, the company took swift action to protect its margins and maintain stock levels in a key market. One insider referred to the airlift as a strategy to “beat the tariffs.”
The March shipments mark a historic monthly high for Apple’s Indian suppliers. Foxconn, the company’s primary partner in India, exported $1.31 billion worth of iPhones—double the amount shipped in January and February combined. These included popular models like the iPhone 13, 14, 16, and 16e, boosting Foxconn’s total U.S.-bound exports from India in 2025 to $5.3 billion.
Meanwhile, Tata Electronics, another rising star in Apple’s Indian supply chain, saw its numbers surge. The company shipped $612 million worth of iPhones, mainly iPhone 15 and 16 models, representing a 63% jump from February.
All Foxconn’s March shipments were flown out of Chennai Air Cargo terminal in Tamil Nadu and landed at U.S. airports, including Los Angeles, New York, and mostly Chicago. To streamline the process, Apple reportedly lobbied Indian airport authorities to reduce customs clearance times at Chennai from 30 hours to just six.
This strategic move came in response to a shifting trade landscape. In April, the U.S. implemented a 26% duty on Indian imports, far lower than China’s, but still significant. While Trump later paused most non-China tariffs, his administration hinted the reprieve may be short-lived, especially as smartphone and electronics imports remain on the radar.
