New Delhi, Apr 30 (KNN) Apple has begun ramping up iPhone production in India, with a new plant in Tamil Nadu now operational and another in Karnataka set to start shipping in May.
The move reflects Apple’s strategic shift to diversify its supply chain amid rising U.S.-China trade tensions.
The new plant, operated by Tata Electronics in Hosur, has started assembling older iPhone models. Meanwhile, a $2.6 billion Foxconn facility under construction in Bengaluru will begin limited production in the coming days.
Sources say the factory will initially produce iPhone 16 and 16e models, with a capacity of 300–500 units per hour. When completed in 2027, the plant is expected to generate around 50,000 jobs.
Apple’s push into India comes as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens tariffs exceeding 100 per cent on Chinese goods, raising concerns about iPhone price hikes and supply chain disruptions.
While electronics have been spared so far, new tariffs may soon impact the sector.
India currently produces 18 per cent of the world’s iPhones, while China still dominates with over 75 per cent, according to research firm Counterpoint. Apple aims to shift most U.S.-bound iPhone production to India by the end of 2026.
In March alone, Apple shipped 600 tons of iPhones worth $2 billion from India to the U.S., marking a monthly record. Foxconn accounted for $1.3 billion of that total, while Tata continued to grow its role as a major supplier.
With the addition of the new plants, Tata and Foxconn now operate five iPhone production facilities across India, positioning the country as a key global manufacturing hub for Apple.
(KNN Bureau)
