Trump trade advisor bashes Tim Cook for Silicon Valley's 'longest-running soap opera'

Core Insights - White House trade advisor Peter Navarro criticized Apple CEO Tim Cook for not moving manufacturing out of China, labeling it as a "soap opera" that has been ongoing since the first Trump term [1][2] - Apple has historically relied on a supply chain in China but is taking steps to diversify amid trade tensions, with plans to ramp up production in India and Vietnam [3][4][8] - The company has committed to investing $500 billion in US projects over the next four years, although analysts suggest that manufacturing an iPhone in the US could lead to a price of $3,500, raising doubts about the feasibility of such a shift [4][9] Company Actions - Apple is increasing iPhone production in India, with expectations that most iPhones sold in the US will originate from India in the June quarter [4][8] - The company is also shifting production of iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and AirPods to Vietnam for US sales [8] Trade and Tariff Context - The Trump administration has delayed tariffs, with new tariffs set to take effect on August 1, which could impact Apple's supply chain decisions [3] - Trump has threatened a 25% tariff on iPhones not made in the US, expressing concerns over Apple's investment in India rather than domestic manufacturing [9]