Trump's Targeting Of Apple Isn't Random — Analyst Says It's A Calculated Move For Maximum Political Gain

Apple Inc. AAPL isn't a company usually associated with national security, but it is in the crosshairs of President Donald Trump, now an expert has given his take on the situation.

What Happened: On Friday, Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at TF Securities, took to X, formerly Twitter, and outlined three key reasons why Trump persistently targets Apple in public.

First, he noted, Trump knows that pressuring a global brand like Apple guarantees widespread media attention. "Forcing Apple, the world’s most famous company, and its iconic iPhone to adopt ‘Made in America' policies generates maximum exposure."

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Second, Apple rarely pushes back publicly, making it a low-risk target. "Apple is reluctant to openly contest Trump's statements or mount significant opposition," Kuo added, stating that it makes it easier for Trump to apply pressure without facing serious backlash.

Finally, Kuo explained that Trump benefits regardless of Apple's response. 

"If Apple moves iPhone assembly back to the U.S., Trump can promote it as a major ‘Made in America’ achievement and key policy win."

On the other hand, if Apple negotiates a deal to avoid tariffs, Trump still gains leverage — and he can always reignite pressure later, Kuo stated.

Why It's Important: Earlier on Friday, Trump demanded that iPhones sold in the U.S. must be manufactured domestically, or the company could face a 25% tariff.

Trump's remarks were a direct response to Apple's expanding footprint in India, where its major supplier, Foxconn, also known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd HNHAF, is constructing a $1.5 billion display module facility near Chennai, India.

Following this, Kuo said that Apple would likely find it more financially viable to absorb a 25% tariff on U.S. iPhone sales than to relocate its iPhone assembly operations back to the U.S.

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