Apple CEO Held Private Talks with Trump Administration on Tariff Concerns

Apple CEO Tim Cook recently met with top officials from the Trump administration, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, to discuss the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on Apple products, especially iPhones, The Washington Post reported.

While refraining from public criticism, Cook engaged privately with several senior figures in the administration, advocating for Apple’s position and warning of rising consumer prices if tariffs were fully enforced. His behind-the-scenes diplomacy reportedly played a key role in President Donald Trump’s decision to scale back certain tariffs, particularly those affecting smartphones and computers.

Tim Cook met with Trump officials over iPhone tariff concerns.

Cook’s approach—marked by personal outreach rather than confrontation—has been noted as influential. According to The Post, Trump valued Cook’s willingness to engage directly, a rapport dating back to Trump’s first term. Their meetings were said to contribute to the administration’s decision to pause some tariff measures that had worried global tech suppliers.

Over the weekend, the administration confirmed temporary exemptions for smartphones, laptops, and related electronics, providing relief for manufacturers and retailers alike. However, a senior official emphasized that no specific exemptions were made to benefit Apple or any individual company.

The administration said it remains focused on encouraging domestic tech production, building on pledges by Apple, Nvidia, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company to expand U.S.-based manufacturing.

Cook, who reportedly donated $1 million to Trump’s 2017 inauguration, continues to be one of the few tech leaders with direct access to the former president, maintaining a strategic line of communication amid ongoing policy shifts.