Donald Trump’s latest round of US tariffs on electronics is mostly aimed at imports from countries like China, Vietnam, and even India. And while the US is the main target, the effects are spilling over everywhere — including here at home. If you’re living in India and wondering why your next laptop, iPhone, or GPU might get more expensive (or not), here’s what’s really going on.
So, why do we even care about US Tariffs?
Short answer: because global tech is one big tangled web. Even if something isn’t made in the US or sold directly there, supply chains are super connected. When Trump slaps a 54% tariff on China-made electronics, or 46% on Vietnam, companies start reshuffling their manufacturing plans. India, hit with a 26% tariff, suddenly becomes more attractive as a factory hub — but that comes with its own pros and cons for Indian shoppers.
What might get pricier in India
Let’s start with the bad news. Stuff like laptops, graphics cards, SSDs, and gaming consoles could get more expensive here — even though the tariffs are aimed at US imports. Why? Because companies will now rush to move manufacturing out of China and Vietnam and may prioritise the US market, which means India might get less stock or face delays, driving up prices.
Also, American brands like Bose, PlayStation, Xbox, and high-end accessories might quietly hike prices worldwide to make up for what they’re losing in the US. That means you might feel the pinch even if the tariffs don’t directly apply to you.
What could stay cheap (or even get cheaper)
Not all is doom and gloom. A bunch of smartphones sold in India — think Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme, — are made right here. So, if Apple and others shift even more production to India to dodge US tariffs, local availability might actually improve in the long run. And since semiconductors are exempt from the tariff drama, anything powered by chips — phones, wearables, tablets — should remain fairly stable in price, unless other parts get hit.
Now, about Apple...
Apple is right at the centre of this storm. They don’t have a single factory in the US, and most of their stuff is made in China, India, Vietnam, or Brazil. With China now hit with a massive 54% tariff, Apple is expected to shift even more production to India — which could be a big win for Make in India.
But there’s a catch: as more iPhones are made here and sent abroad, Indian customers might face supply delays, especially for new launches. Also, if factories prioritise US demand, local pricing could take a hit too. So while it’s cool that Apple’s investing more in India, the short-term effect might not feel all that great.
Basically, Trump's tariffs weren’t aimed at Indian buyers — but thanks to the way global tech works, we’re caught in the crossfire anyway.
