Tata to Manufacture iPhones in India, says IT minister

Indian IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar has officially confirmed that Tata Group will initiate the manufacturing of Apple iPhones in India. Tata Group became the first Indian company to manufacture iPhones in India. Tata's production will cater to both the domestic and international markets highlighting India's expanding manufacturing capabilities and marking a significant shift in Apple's production strategy.

"In just two and a half years, Tata Group will begin manufacturing iPhones in India for both local and global markets. Congratulations to the Tata team for acquiring Winstron's operations," stated Chandrasekhar on the social media platform X

Tata Group successfully acquired Wistron's Indian operations for a significant $125 million (approximately ₹1,040 Crore), this paved the way for their involvement in the manufacturing and assembly of Apple iPhones in India. Tata Group's purchase of the Wistron Corp factory in Karnataka was the result of almost a year of negotiations.

The IT Minister also included a press release from Wistron, which revealed that Wistron held a board meeting on that day. During the meeting, they authorised their subsidiaries, SMS InfoComm (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. and Wistron Hong Kong Limited, entered into a share purchase agreement with Tata Electronics Private Limited (TEPL). This deal was about Wistron selling all the parts it owned in Wistron InfoComm Manufacturing (India) Private Limited.

After both parties confirm and sign the necessary agreements, the deal will move forward to get the required approvals. Once the transaction is finalised, Wistron will follow the rules and regulations to make the necessary announcements, The Press release stated.

This move boosts India's role in the global electronics manufacturing scene and solidifies Tata Group's position as a significant player in making one of the world's most famous consumer gadgets, Apple's iPhones. This strategic move has been lauded for its contribution to establishing a global supply chain in India, led by Indian companies.

The growing significance of India in Apple's diversification strategy is highlighted by the government's provision of financial incentives to stimulate local manufacturing. Apple's expansion beyond China, especially in light of trade tensions between Washington and Beijing, highlights India's pivotal role as a vital hub in the company's efforts to diversify its supply chain.

IPhone Production in India

Apple commenced iPhone production in India in 2017 with the iPhone SE, assembled by Wistron in Bengaluru. This was the starting point for Apple's gradual growth in the country, and it has been producing iPhones in India since then. In 2018, Apple began making the iPhone 6s, followed by the iPhone 7 in 2019. The iPhone XR and iPhone 11 were also assembled at Foxconn's Chennai plant. Furthermore, newer versions like the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and even the iPhone 14 are also manufactured in India.

Apple has just released the iPhone 15 series, which was manufactured in India. Additionally, Apple has been expanding its presence in the country, having recently opened its first physical stores in Delhi and Mumbai last month. Apple CEO Tim Cook attended both store openings and had discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi about Apple's future plans in India.