Apple iPhone And Other Smartphone Imports From China Hit 14-Year Low Amid Tariff Tensions

Apple’s (AAPL) iPhone and other smartphone exports from China to the U.S. have fallen to their lowest monthly level since April 2011, Chinese customs data showed on Tuesday, highlighting the cumulative pressure of ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions.

According to data cited by Bloomberg, smartphone shipments from China to the U.S. dropped 72% year-over-year (YoY) to just under $700 million in April, significantly steeper than the broader 21% decline in overall Chinese exports to the U.S.

The latest data comes after President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariff increases across the board, with levies against China peaking at 145%. 

Apple CEO Tim Cook warned during the company’s first-quarter (Q1) earnings call that tariffs could add about $900 million to its cost structure in June. 

While the U.S. and China have agreed to a temporary 90-day tariff truce, Apple still plans to raise prices on its upcoming iPhone lineup, citing new features and design changes.

Reports suggest Apple is “determined” to avoid any perception that tariffs are behind the increases.

Meanwhile, Apple has accelerated efforts to diversify production. Cook said most iPhones bound for the U.S. between April and June will be assembled in India. On Tuesday, Apple supplier Foxconn said it would invest $1.5 billion in its India unit, which manufactures electronic components and assembles Apple’s iPhones.

Meanwhile, Chinese customs data shows the value of phone component exports to India has roughly quadrupled in the past year, according to Bloomberg. 

Trump has criticized Apple’s India shift, calling for the company to move manufacturing to the U.S.

Apple’s stock edged 0.6% lower in midday trade on Tuesday. The shares have fallen 16% this year but have gained 9.5% over the past 12 months. 

For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

Read also: AMD Better Positioned To Compete With Nvidia After ZT Systems Sale, Citi Says