Summary:

This article examines the impact of former U.S. President Trump's high tariff policies on Apple and its global supply chain partners, particularly concerning a potential wave of "panic buying" driven by current stable iPhone prices but anticipated future increases. The analysis explores the historical context, present situation, and strategies employed by Chinese companies in response to these shifts within Apple’s supply chain.

Analysis:
I. Tariff-Driven Panic Buying of iPhones
- Following U.S. implementation of retaliatory tariffs in April, iPhone prices are projected to increase by approximately 30%.
- To mitigate the tariff impact, Apple has accumulated a significant inventory of iPhones within its American warehouses.
- Consumers anticipate future price hikes and are engaging in "panic buying" as a result.

II. Accelerated Supply Chain Restructuring at Apple Amidst Trade Tensions
- Since 2017, Apple has been gradually relocating production facilities from China to countries like India and Vietnam.
- By 2024, the latest iPhone series will be fully assembled in India, accounting for 14% of global production capacity.
- While Chinese factories maintain high quality standards with a yield rate of approximately 98%, Indian factory yields are around 85%.

III. Implications for China's "Apple Supply Chain" Companies
- The immediate impact is limited; however, the long-term trend may accelerate the transmission of tariff costs to upstream suppliers.
- Most “Apple supply chain” companies have a relatively low percentage of direct exports to the United States and are already diversifying their operations.
- Foxconn and other manufacturers have established facilities in India and Vietnam to meet Apple’s production demands.