How a 25% Tariff Could Affect iPhone Affordability in Colombia

Image Source: Tom's Guide

Colombians may soon face “unpayable” prices for the latest iPhone if former President Donald Trump follows through on his threat to impose a 25% tariff on Apple devices manufactured outside the United States. Trump’s warning, delivered via a fiery social media post, targets Apple’s recent shift to producing iPhones in India and China, demanding the tech giant “build in America—or pay.”

Key Highlights:

Massive Price Hike: Analysts forecast that a 25% tariff could push iPhone prices up by 30% to 43% globally. The entry-level iPhone 16, which retails for $799 in the U.S., could soar to $1,142. The flagship iPhone 16 Pro Max, currently at $1,599, might skyrocket to nearly $2,300 before taxes and import duties.
Colombian Peso Impact: With the current exchange rate hovering around 4,000 pesos per U.S. dollar, the base iPhone 16 could cost over 4.5 million pesos, while the Pro Max version could exceed 9 million pesos—before local taxes and retailer markups. For many Colombians, this would make owning a new iPhone nearly impossible.
Industry Shockwaves: Apple’s stock dropped sharply after the announcement, with experts warning that the company may struggle to pass the full cost to consumers. Apple CEO Tim Cook has indicated that most iPhones sold in the U.S. will soon be made in India, but Trump’s tariff would apply to all non-U.S.-made devices, including those from India and Vietnam.
Market Uncertainty: The proposed tariffs have rattled global markets and tech investors, with fears of reduced demand and a sharp decline in Apple’s sales in emerging markets like Colombia.

If Trump’s tariff becomes reality, the iPhone could become a true luxury item in Colombia—out of reach for all but the wealthiest.

Sources: Reuters, Business Today, Economic Times