Apple is exploring India as a potential manufacturing hub for iPhones, with the Tata Group set to produce these devices for both domestic and international markets. Electronics and Technology Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar expressed the government’s support for this endeavor, highlighting India’s growing importance in smartphone manufacturing and exports due to the PLI scheme. Chandrasekhar commended Tata for taking over Wistron operations and underlined the significance of Indian electronics companies becoming global manufacturing and talent partners.
The partnership between Tata and Apple comes after Wistron Corp., a Taiwan-based contract manufacturer for Apple, approved the sale of its India unit to Tata Group for $125 million. Tata Group will have full ownership of Wistron InfoComm Manufacturing (India) Private Limited (WMMI), subject to necessary approvals.
This move marks a significant shift in Apple’s manufacturing strategy, as it traditionally relied on Chinese factories. Geopolitical tensions and rising labor costs in China have prompted Apple to seek alternative production sources. India’s vast consumer market, skilled workforce, and favorable government policies have made it an attractive option for Apple.
Apple initiated iPhone manufacturing in India in 2017, starting with the iPhone SE and gradually expanding its operations to include the assembly of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. This development underscores India’s growing importance in Apple’s global supply chain.
