What Apple’s Shift to India Means

One of the world’s largest tech behemoths is taking a courageous step forward by increasing its manufacturing presence in India.

But what’s behind this shift, who’s doing it, where is it taking place, when did it begin, and why does it matter? It is a story of smart business and government support, and India’s emergence as a manufacturing center. Apple had stepped up iPhone production in India in the last few years, with exports of about $2.5 billion in the first ten months of the 2025 fiscal year, up nearly 50 percent. This isn’t just big news for Apple fans — it reflects a changing global economy. Let’s dig into all how Apple is expanding its footprint in India and what all this means for you.

Apple’s push to increase manufacturing in India is changing the way and the place where its iconic iPhones are produced. Apple’s production center for years had been in China. Now it’s India’s turn in the spotlight.

When Did It Start?

The change started a few years back but accelerated in 2024. According to the report, Apple doubled its iPhone production in India in the last fiscal year, assembling $14 billion worth of devices. By February 2025, the company’s work was evident: Indian exports of iPhones had reached new heights, almost 50 percent more than the previous year.

Where Is It Happening?

Most of Apple’s India manufacturing is concentrated in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Factories operated by partners, such as Foxconn and Tata Electronics, are humming to life and making everything from entry-level iPhones to premium versions like the iPhone 16 Pro.

Why India? Apple’s Expansion: The Forces Working in Its Favor

So why is Apple putting so much stock in India? It isn’t as though it’s a random choice — there’s a specific rationale for this shift.

1. PLI Scheme: Support From the Government

The Indian government launched the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to woo companies such as Apple. The scheme provides cash incentives to companies that produce products in India. It’s a game changer, prompting Apple to rework its supply chain and increase exports.

Key Benefit: 80 percent of iPhones produced in India are exported.
Impact: Within the next five years, $3.4 trillion worth of iPhones could be manufactured in India.

2. Moving Away from China

Apple is putting its eggs in more baskets. In the current climate of tensions and supply chain risks in China, India presents a safer, burgeoning alternative as a hub for manufacturing.

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India isn’t only a place to manufacture iPhones — it’s also a massive market. It’s a double win for Apple: skilled workers and millions of potential customers.

Who’s Making It Happen?

Apple doesn’t make iPhones by itself. It partners with the big players to get things done. Here’s who’s involved:

Foxconn: Another major Taiwan number is in the game, assembling premium iPhones among other products in plants in India.
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Other Suppliers: Smaller companies are also getting on board, building an ecosystem that supports Apple’s growth.

These partnerships are transforming India into a tech manufacturing powerhouse.

What’s Being Made? Apple’s Products in India

Apple is now making more than basic iPhones in India. The range is growing fast.

Entry Devices: Older iPhone models aimed at the value-oriented buyer.
Top-Tier Devices: The iPhone 16 Pro and other high-end devices
Overall future plans: Apple has expressed an ambitious goal of moving 25% of its iPhone production to India by 2025.

This also reflects Apple’s confidence in India’s capacity to manage complex manufacturing.

How It’s Transforming India’s Economy

Apple’s expansion isn’t just about iPhones — it’s also elevating India’s status in the world.

Jobs Galore

New jobs in the thousands are emerging. Factories require workers, engineers and so forth. It’s a victory for young Indians seeking jobs.

Exports Soar

In India, mobile phones — iPhones included — have become the country’s No. 1 export, overtaking diamonds. Leader:That’s a seismic change, indicating tech reigns supreme now.

A Manufacturing Powerhouse

Other heavy hitters such as Tesla and Intel have their eyes on Apple’s success. India is no longer a mere software hub—it is an exciting place to make.

The Challenges Ahead: What Could Come Between Us?

It’s not all smooth sailing. Apple’s path to growth in India is a bumpy one.

Skills gap: You can’t train a worker overnight to fill high-tech jobs.
—Infrastructure: Roads, ports and power must keep pace with changes.
Competition: Other nations are also after a slice of Apple’s business.

However, India’s growth remains robust, with these obstacles simply things for it to eventually surmount.

What Comes Next for Apple in India?

Apple has grand plans for the future. A quarter of all iPhones could originate from India by 2025. That is a giant leap from where things began. And with India’s market expanding, we might see more Apple stores and products designed for Indian shoppers. This isn’t just a short-term (or even medium-term) move — this is a long-term play.

Conclusion: The Future of Apple and Indians Are Shining

It’s thus a win-win for Apple to expand its manufacturing operations in India. For Apple, it is an opportunity for diversification and expansion. For India, it is a shot in the arm for jobs, exports and international standing. Well-supported by government, with strong partners, and a clear plan for its nascent stages, this shift is primed to foster a tech revolution. Whether you’re an Apple devotee or just tracking the economy, this is a story worth following.

References

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