Apple Begins Assembling iPhone 16e in Brazil as Global Manufacturing Strategy Shifts

Apple has officially begun assembling the new iPhone 16e in Brazil, according to a recent report from MacMagazine. The move marks a significant expansion of Apple’s global manufacturing footprint as the company works to diversify production beyond China.

In a post earlier this week, MacMagazine shared a photo of a Brazilian-purchased iPhone 16e box showing a label that reads "FABRICADO NO BRASIL" (Manufactured in Brazil), with full details pointing to Foxconn Brasil Indústria e Comércio Ltda., located in Jundiaí, São Paulo. The label clearly confirms local assembly, and the packaging even includes the phrase "Assembled in Brazil" in English.

Official Certification Confirms Local Production

Further confirmation came through Brazil’s National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), which has published updated certification for the iPhone 16e that now includes local production. This step not only complies with Brazilian regulations but also indicates Apple’s intention to make the region a more integral part of its supply chain.

A Strategic Move in a Shifting Trade Landscape

Apple’s decision to begin assembling the iPhone 16e in Brazil aligns with its broader strategy to diversify manufacturing. For years, Apple has heavily relied on China for the bulk of its production. However, as tensions between the United States and China escalate, and tariffs on Chinese-made electronics continue to loom, the company is taking proactive steps to reduce its exposure to potential supply chain disruptions.

While President Trump reportedly granted Apple a temporary exemption from steep 245% tariffs, the long-term status of that exemption remains uncertain. As a result, expanding production into other regions like India and Brazil has become a practical necessity.

Brazil’s Growing Role in Apple’s Supply Chain

Brazil has long been an important market for Apple, but production has been limited to a few entry-level models in the past. The iPhone 16e’s local assembly may signal Apple’s interest in scaling up operations in the region—not only to serve the Brazilian market more cost-effectively but also to act as a production hub for Latin America.

Looking Ahead

The decision to assemble the iPhone 16e in Brazil highlights Apple’s evolving manufacturing strategy. As trade policies shift and supply chain resilience becomes more important, Apple is positioning itself to respond quickly to changes. With increased activity in Brazil and India, Apple is building out a more globally distributed production model—one that may help it weather political and economic uncertainties in the years ahead.

For now, Brazilian consumers can celebrate the fact that they’re getting locally assembled iPhones—possibly with faster availability and fewer import-related costs. And for Apple, it’s a smart step toward future-proofing its global operations.