Global markets rallied when the U.S. and China announced their 90-day tariff truce on May 12, but behind closed doors, Apple and Tesla executives haven't changed their long-term plans. Despite reduced tensions, both tech giants are accelerating their exodus from China—creating a new map of winners and losers that savvy investors are already positioning for.
The India iPhone Pipeline Expands Despite Truce
Apple shipped a record 600 tons of iPhones worth $2 billion from India to the United States in March alone, setting production records at its Indian facilities. The company has ambitious plans to manufacture most U.S.-bound iPhones in India by the end of 2026, regardless of the current trade situation. Apple assembled $22 billion worth of iPhones in India in the 12 months ended March, increasing production by nearly 60% over the previous year.
- $2 Billion: Value of iPhones shipped from India to the US in March 2025 alone
- 60% Growth: Year-over-year increase in Apple's Indian manufacturing output
- 2026 Target: Apple's deadline to shift majority of US-bound iPhone production to India
- $22 Billion: Total value of iPhones assembled in India over the past 12 months
The China Dependency Paradox
Despite the "Made in India" label that will appear on more devices, Apple's manufacturing remains fundamentally tied to China. "If something hits the fan in China, no iPhones will be made in India because all of the sub-assembly is still taking place in China," notes Patrick McGee, author of "Apple in China." This complex reality creates opportunities for suppliers who can establish footholds in both countries simultaneously.
Musk vs. The White House: An Unexpected Rift
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has found himself in an unusual position—publicly criticizing tariff policies despite being one of Trump's closest advisors. In April, Musk called trade advisor Peter Navarro "truly a moron" after Navarro pointed out Tesla's dependence on Asian batteries and components. Tesla has already pulled its Model S and Model X from the Chinese market due to retaliatory tariffs, with Musk acknowledging that "20% to 25% of a Tesla's value" comes from components sourced outside the U.S.