Former US President Donald Trump, who is running for re-election, is known for initiating trade wars during his previous term. He imposed retaliatory tariffs on several countries including allies and rivals alike. Trump levied a minimum of 10% tariffs on all imported goods into the US, going up to a maximum of 49% (highest on Cambodia). For instance, tariffs were set at 26% on Indian goods, 34% on Chinese goods, and 20% on goods from European nations.
Due to these Trump tariffs, iPhones may become significantly more expensive. Apple, the leading smartphone manufacturer, is expected to increase iPhone prices substantially, according to market sources. Since iPhone production is primarily based in China — which is heavily taxed under Trump's tariffs — the production cost may rise. Depending on the iPhone model, prices may increase by 30% to 40%. However, it is still uncertain whether Apple will absorb the extra cost or pass it on to customers.
Currently, the base model of the iPhone 16 is priced at $799 in the US, approximately ₹68,000 in Indian currency. If Apple transfers the full tariff burden to consumers, the price could rise to $1,142 — around ₹97,000. The premium iPhone 16 Pro Max (1TB variant) could reach $2,300, or ₹2 lakh. Previously, Apple had some special exemptions to reduce the tariff impact, but such concessions may not be available this time. iPhone sales are already below expectations in key markets, and further price hikes could reduce demand even more. This may benefit Apple’s main competitor Samsung, which manufactures outside of China.
