Apple pledges new billion dollar investment into US to shield itself from Trump's tariff wrath

On August 6, US President Donald Trump took credit as Apple CEO Tim Cook announced a significant expansion of the tech giant’s investment plans in the United States.

Speaking from the Oval Office alongside Cook, Trump revealed that Apple is adding $100 billion to its previously announced $500 billion commitment, raising its total pledged investment in US manufacturing, workforce training, and infrastructure to $600 billion over the next four years.

As reported by The Washington Post, the announcement comes amid Apple’s efforts to sidestep new tariffs that could increase the price of iPhones and other products.

“We’re planning to impose major tariffs on chips and semiconductors,” Trump said. “But the good news for companies like Apple is that if you’re building—or committed to building—in the United States, there will be no charge.”

Apple’s announcement follows a familiar pattern of Trump highlighting corporate investments as a result of his economic policies, though it remains uncertain how much of the spending would have occurred regardless. Trump has consistently argued that tariff threats on imports incentivise companies to bring manufacturing back to the US. However, data from the US Bureau of Labour Statistics shows a slight decline in manufacturing jobs during his presidency.

Trump also shared that Apple will be deepening its partnership with Corning at its glass manufacturing plant in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. “I did very well in Kentucky,” Trump remarked, referencing his 2024 election win in the state with 64% of the vote. Cook noted that Apple aims to produce all front-facing glass for iPhones and Apple Watches in Kentucky.

“You’ve been a strong advocate for American innovation and manufacturing,” Cook told Trump. “We’ll continue to invest and hire right here in the US”

“They’re coming home,” Trump added. “Isn’t it nice to see things being made in America again, instead of in faraway countries?”

Not all of Apple’s promised investments are tied directly to manufacturing. In February, the company said a portion of the new spending would support the development of artificial intelligence infrastructure, expansion of data centres, and production of content for its Apple TV+ streaming platform.

“Today’s announcement with Apple is another win for our manufacturing industry,” said White House assistant press secretary Taylor Rogers, “and it helps reshore production of critical components, strengthening America’s economic and national security.”

By Nazrin Sadigova