New Delhi. Apple has taken a big step towards strengthening its manufacturing base outside China. According to sources, a new plant in South India has started iPhone production and the second plant will start shipment from May. This step is part of Apple's attempt to protect the global supply chain of Apple amidst the ongoing trade war between the US and China.

US President Donald Trump has imposed more than 100% tariffs on China, which has increased the possibility of increase in iPhone prices and interruptions in supply chains, although the electronics made in China have not been put on tariffs so far, but Washington has indicated that the situation may change in a few weeks.

According to Counterpoint Research, more than 75% of iPhone is produced in China worldwide, while India's stake has now reached 18%. Apple is now working rapidly on the plan to build most of the iPhones sold in the US by the end of 2026. In March, 600 tonnes of iPhones (around ₹ 16,900 crore) were exported from India to India, which is a monthly record ever. Out of this, ₹ 10,987 crore smartphone was sent alone by FoxConn.