India’s mobile phone exports witnessed an impressive 50% growth in the first ten months of the financial year (April–January), soaring to $17.27 billion from $11.51 billion in the same period last year. This surge was primarily fueled by Apple’s increased iPhone production, with exports climbing to $11.51 billion, a sharp rise from last year’s $6.91 billion. Samsung also played a significant role, exporting $3.97 billion worth of mobile devices.
According to the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), total mobile exports are projected to reach $20.72 billion by the financial year’s end, reflecting a 40% year-over-year increase. This marks an extraordinary 680% rise in exports since the introduction of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme in FY21.
Electronics have now overtaken oil products as India’s second-largest export category, underscoring the impact of the PLI scheme in boosting exports while reducing import dependence. With 99% of domestic mobile demand now met by local production, the sector is seeing remarkable growth. ICEA Chairman Pankaj Mohindroo stated that India’s mobile manufacturing sector is set to reach $58.71 billion, reinforcing its status as a global manufacturing hub.
India’s strategic focus on increasing competitiveness, scaling operations, and streamlining supply chains is part of a broader vision to achieve $500 billion in electronics manufacturing. While China remains Apple’s primary supplier, India’s production capabilities have expanded significantly, thanks to contributions from Foxconn and the Tata Group.
The Indian government expects mobile exports to continue their upward trajectory as Apple expands its production line beyond iPhones to include AirPods. This move, alongside increasing local investments, positions India as a rising force in the global electronics manufacturing industry.
