U.S. President Donald Trump escalated trade tensions on Friday, threatening tariffs on smartphones produced outside the United States, including those by Samsung and Apple, while proposing a 50% tax on European Union imports. The announcements have raised alarms among global investors and tech industry leaders.
Apple and Samsung in the Crosshairs
Trump stated he would impose a 25% tariff on iPhones unless Apple shifts manufacturing to the U.S., directly addressing CEO Tim Cook in a social media post. Later, he expanded the threat to include Samsung, emphasizing fairness in trade practices. “It would be more, it would be also Samsung and anybody that makes that product. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be fair,” Trump told reporters.
EU Faces Steep Tariffs
Separately, Trump criticized the EU’s trade policies, accusing the bloc of exploiting the U.S. and proposing a 50% tariff on all EU imports starting June 1, 2025. He cited stalled negotiations and “unfair” trade barriers as justification.
Market Reactions and Implications
Samsung, a South Korean tech giant, and Apple, which relies heavily on global supply chains, could face significant cost increases. Analysts warn the measures may disrupt tech markets, strain U.S. alliances, and trigger retaliatory measures. The announcements come amid broader debates over reshoring manufacturing and trade policy ahead of the U.S. election.
