Apple plans to relocate part of its Mac mini desktop computer production line from Asia to the United States, the Wall Street Journal reported on the 23rd (local time). Production is expected to begin at a Foxconn facility north of Houston later this year.
The plan is part of Apple's commitment announced in August last year to invest $600 billion (approximately 868 trillion won) in the U.S. over the next four years. U.S. President Donald Trump had pressured the company in May last year by threatening to impose 25% tariffs on Apple products manufactured overseas.
"Mac mini production will continue in Asia, but the Houston plant will meet U.S. demand. Whether we will reduce Asian production remains uncertain," said Sabih Khan, Apple's Chief Operating Officer. "The Mac mini is more popular than the Mac Pro, so we are confident in the long-term demand outlook."
Apple also plans to expand the Houston facility to establish an advanced manufacturing training center. The center, set to open this year, will train students, supplier employees, and other stakeholders in Apple product manufacturing technologies.
Currently, Apple produces most of its products in Asia, including China, and has been diversifying some production to Vietnam, Thailand, and India in recent years.