Largan Precision Co. Chairman Lin En-ping revealed the company is prepared to mass produce “higher difficulty” camera lenses for the next generation of iPhones expected in the third quarter, even as clients discuss potential production relocation amid rising US tariff tensions.
The Taichung-based lens maker’s comments come shortly after President Donald Trump’s administration implemented sweeping tariffs, including a 32% levy on Taiwanese imports. However, Lin stated Largan “hasn’t been directly affected” since its production remains based in Taiwan with shipments going to clients in China and other Asian countries rather than directly to the US.
While acknowledging discussions with customers about diversifying production locations, Lin noted that overseas manufacturing costs would be significantly higher. “If clients are willing to help absorb the relocation costs, there might be room for progress, but currently there are only inquiries without conclusions,” he said.
The lens specialist anticipates typical seasonal weakness in the second quarter, with April momentum declining from March levels and May expected to be weaker than April. Looking ahead to Q3, Lin expressed confidence in Largan’s technological edge, stating that while new projects are beginning, the company’s “high-end lenses are rarely affected” by price pressures from clients.
Largan, which maintains nine factories in Taiwan and two in China, counts Apple among its major customers. The company is also exploring new growth avenues, including metalens technology for facial recognition features and components for robotics requiring high-precision visual recognition.
