Apple Flies in iPhones from India to the U.S. Ahead of Tariff Hike

In a bold and calculated move, Apple has airlifted a massive batch of iPhones and other gadgets from India to the United States — all within just three days — as part of a strategy to stockpile inventory before impending U.S. import tariffs take effect.

According to The Times of India, citing a senior Indian government official, five cargo planes carrying Apple devices departed from India for the U.S. in the final days of March. The goal: to shield American consumers from immediate price hikes and prevent supply shortages.

China Also Plays a Role
Insiders also reported that Apple has been actively shipping products from China and other key manufacturing hubs, anticipating higher import duties. Plants in India, China, and elsewhere have ramped up their U.S.-bound shipments in what analysts are calling a race against time.

iPhone Prices Could Jump 43%
According to Rosenblatt Securities, if Apple decides to pass on the full cost of new tariffs to consumers, iPhone prices in the U.S. could surge by as much as 43%. That’s why Apple’s decision to bulk up on inventory now could help delay or soften any immediate price increases.

A Boom in Urgent Air Freight
The rush has also led to a surge in logistics costs. Xeneta, a global freight analytics platform, reported that emergency air freight rates from China to the U.S. have jumped 37% in recent weeks, as multiple industries rush to secure their supply chains.

Zamin.uz Insight: Apple’s proactive stockpiling is a textbook example of strategic foresight in global business. While others brace for the fallout of rising tariffs, Apple is already steps ahead — reinforcing its market position and protecting customers from price shock. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”