Apple has made numerous efforts to reduce its dependence on China. But a political decision could call everything into question. Heavy tariffs will hit its suppliers around the world.
For several years, Apple has been trying to diversify its production chain. To reduce its dependence on China, the group has moved part of its manufacturing to other Asian countries, such as India and Vietnam. This strategic move was aimed at anticipating trade tensions between Beijing and Washington and making the company more resilient. But a new decision by US authorities could undo all these efforts.
The Trump administration has announced a series of new customs tariffs targeting several US trading partners. These customs duties directly affect countries that produce components for iPhones, iPads and Macs, such as Apple Silicon chips manufactured in Taiwan or OLED screens assembled in Vietnam.
These parts are used in recent models like the iPhone 16 Pro or iMacs equipped with the M3 chip. The government applies a minimum tax of 10% to all its partners, but some key countries for Apple are targeted by much larger increases. Unlike During his previous term, Donald Trump said no exemptions would be granted.
New tariffs hit Apple suppliers worldwide
The affected countries represent a large part of Apple's supply chain. Among the announced tariffs are:
- European Union: 20%
- India: 26%
- Japan: 24%
- Malaysia: 24%
- Taiwan: 32%
- China: 34%
- Thailand: 36%
- Vietnam: 46%
Taiwan is particularly strategic for Apple, as it is where its Apple Silicon chips are manufactured. Morgan Stanley estimates that the annual additional cost for the brand could reach $8.5 billion if these tariffs are maintained. There is no indication yet whether this increase will be reflected in the prices of products sold to the public.
The measure will come into effect on April 9 and has already provoked an immediate reaction: Apple shares fell 7.5% on the stock market after the announcement. These new taxes come as the group is investing massively in alternative production sites, particularly in India. But according to Tim Cook, the United States still does not have the necessary skills to compete with Asian factories. This new customs policy could therefore weigh heavily on the brand's results and delay its relocation strategy.
Source: NY Times
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