Today, President Trump held a meeting with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, during which he responded to questions from the press regarding US tariffs. He specifically mentioned having spoken with Apple CEO Tim Cook and lending him support recently.
Trump states ‘I converse with Tim Cook’ in tariff discussion
Amid the uncertain landscape of US tariff regulations, Apple appears to have managed to avoid significant repercussions with the newly introduced exclusions for smartphones, laptops, computer processors, and other goods.
Although the reasons behind these exclusions were previously unclear, it now seems that Trump’s relationship with Tim Cook played a role.
During the conversation about potential temporary tariff exemptions for various items, Trump first addressed the automotive sector before being asked, “What about Apple products and other smartphones?”
His response (as reported by Aaron Rupar) was:
Look, I’m a very adaptable individual. I don’t shift my perspective easily, but I am adaptable. You can’t simply erect a wall; sometimes you must maneuver around it, beneath it, or above it.
There may be developments on the horizon. I talk to Tim Cook. I have assisted Tim Cook recently. And regarding that entire scenario—I don’t want to harm anyone, yet we are striving for greatness for our country.
While the precise implications of Trump’s comments might remain ambiguous, a few key points emerge.
He seems to imply:
- That he has aided Cook with tariff exclusions
- And that Cook is a business figure he consults regarding these economic issues.
Trump’s recognition of Cook’s challenging position with tariffs suggests ongoing support from the administration for Apple.
While the president may not explicitly state that Apple is entirely unaffected, he appears to be indicating that Cook’s insights will continue to factor into his “flexible” approach to tariffs.
We’ll see how the situation develops in the upcoming months.
