Apple tariffs face new uncertainty as Trump backtracks again

The post Apple tariffs face new uncertainty as Trump backtracks again appeared first on Android Headlines.

Apr 24, 2025 - 18:41

The whole tech industry is facing a period of uncertainty right now because of Trump’s tariffs. Trump’s unpredictable nature leaves many unsure whether he will follow through with the current tariff plans. For companies like Apple, this is a big deal. Apple imports the majority of its products from China, which is currently the hardest-hit country with tariffs of 145%. The situation has evolved rapidly, with Trump backtracks becoming a headline theme after his sudden 90-day pause on what he initially called “Liberation Day” tariffs.

Trump’s tariff threats keep tech companies on edge

Following his announcement of his “Liberation Day” tariffs, Trump quickly backtracked and put his plan on a 90-day pause. But now it looks like he could be changing his mind yet again. Speaking to reporters during an Oval Office ceremony, Trump was quoted as saying that he could re-impose his tariffs on some countries in the next 2-3 weeks.

“In the end, I think what’s going to happen is, we’re going to have great deals, and by the way, if we don’t have a deal with a company or a country, we’re going to set the tariff. I’d say over the next couple of weeks, wouldn’t you say? I think so. Over the next two, three weeks. We’ll be setting the number.”

This could further complicate things. Right now, the 90-day pause sets tariffs at a base rate of 10% for all countries—except China. However, if Trump plans to bring back his reciprocal tariffs earlier, it could cause all kinds of headaches. Especially for companies like Apple.

While Apple manufactures and produces a lot in China, it imports from other countries like India, Vietnam, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea, just to name a few. This means that, depending on the deals these countries make with Trump, we could be looking at a rollercoaster of tariffs from country to country.

For instance, India’s tariffs are discounted at 26%. However, Vietnam has a 46% tariff. Apple manufactures most of its iPads and AirPods in Vietnam. So these tariffs, if implemented, could see the prices of iPads and AirPods go up considerably. With Trump’s backtracking becoming a repeating cycle, it’s impossible to tell if these numbers will hold or shift dramatically again.

Retaliation risks and global uncertainty still loom

Previous reports suggested that Apple would be “safe” from these tariffs. Trump himself boasted that he had helped Apple navigate these tariff pivots. However, let’s not forget that while Trump is busy imposing tariffs, other countries are doing the same in retaliation. For example, China is backing down in its trade war with the US. The Chinese government has threatened its own retaliation. This includes Apple. In short, “Apple tariffs Trump backtracks” isn’t just a political slogan; it’s the reality for tech companies trying to plan for the future.

It’s still too early to tell how all of this plays out. But if there are any electronics you plan to buy this year, maybe buying them now is a good idea. Once these tariffs go into effect, and when existing inventory is sold out, who knows how much your next smartphone, laptop, or TV will cost?

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