Apple has reportedly chartered six cargo planes since March to fly around 600 tonnes of iPhones from India to the United States, according to Reuters. The move aims to build up inventory in the US before a potential 26% tariff on Indian imports, proposed by President Donald Trump, takes effect. The tariff is currently on a 90-day hold, giving Apple a limited window to act.

Approximately 1.5 million iPhones were shipped as part of the effort, with Apple coordinating closely with Indian airport authorities to reduce customs clearance time from 30 hours to just six. Production has also intensified at Foxconn’s Chennai plant in Tamil Nadu, which is now operating on Sundays to meet growing demand.

The strategy is part of Apple’s broader plan to reduce reliance on China by expanding manufacturing in countries like India. While Chinese goods face a steep 145% tariff under Trump's policy, Indian-made products are subject to a comparatively lower 10% import duty.

In 2024, India accounted for 20% of iPhones shipped to the US, according to Counterpoint Research. Apple aims to increase its production in India by 20% this year. Analysts warn that ongoing tariff tensions could drive up global iPhone prices.