Washington: US President Donald Trump threatened Friday to roll out 25 percent tariffs by the end of next month on smartphones made by Apple, Samsung Electronics Co. and other companies if they are not manufactured in the United States. Speaking after signing executive orders at the White House, Trump said the new levies could take effect by the end of June.

According to Philippines News Agency, Trump stated that the measure would not only affect Apple but also Samsung and any company producing similar products. He emphasized that the tariffs are intended to encourage companies to manufacture their products in the US. Trump defended targeting Apple, an American company, by pointing to its increasing production in India. He remarked, "If they build in the US, there's no tariff," signaling his administration's focus on boosting domestic manufacturing.

Trump's proposal of new levies on imported smartphones has raised concerns in South Korea, particularly regarding its impact on economic and trade relations with the US. The two countries have been engaged in discussions over tariffs and other trade issues, with South Korea striving to mitigate the effects of the Trump administration's policies on its economy.

In addition, Trump directed criticism towards the European Union, expressing dissatisfaction with stalled trade negotiations and proposing a significant 50 percent tariff on EU goods starting June 1. He reiterated his stance that the EU was established to exploit the US economically. Trump noted that there would be no tariffs if EU companies chose to build their manufacturing plants in the US.