Apple has taken a major step in expanding its presence in India by beginning the assembly of its entire iPhone 16 lineup, including the premium iPhone 16 Pro models. This marks the first time the tech giant has manufactured its high-end models outside of China, aiming to strengthen its global supply chain and reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing amidst geopolitical concerns.
Apple will make the iPhone 16 models assembled in India available for domestic sale later this month and will export them to several international markets, including the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. Apple’s shift towards India is part of its plan to increase iPhone production within the country from 10% to a projected 25% by next year. Foxconn, Pegatron, and Tata Group, Apple’s key contract manufacturers, are playing critical roles in this process.
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Apple’s sales in India have been on the rise, with the company reporting significant growth in domestic and export revenues. Its revenue in India for fiscal year 2024 reached approximately ₹68,000 crore, while exports from the country are valued at around ₹66,000 crore. Alongside the manufacturing shift, Apple plans to strengthen its retail presence in India. Apple opened its first stores in Mumbai and Delhi in 2023 and now plans to launch new outlets in Bengaluru, Pune, and additional locations in Delhi and Mumbai.
Apple’s expansion reflects its commitment to the Indian market, which has also spurred job creation. The company’s partnerships with local suppliers support hundreds of thousands of jobs across India, highlighting Apple’s growing role in the country’s economic landscape.
