India’s mobile phone exports are witnessing unprecedented growth, surpassing the ₹25,000 crore mark in January 2025. The cumulative export value for FY25 is projected to reach ₹1.80 lakh crore, reflecting a 40% year-on-year rise and an astounding 680% surge since the introduction of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme in FY21.
Apple’s Dominance in India’s Smartphone Exports
According to the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), Apple’s iPhones accounted for nearly 70% of mobile phone export revenue in January 2025. Leading Apple supplier Foxconn contributed 33% of the total exports, translating to $960 million in shipments for the month.
With this rapid expansion, mobile phone exports have become the biggest contributor to India’s electronics exports, with the US emerging as the largest market for Indian-made smartphones.
India to Become a Global Smartphone Export Hub
ICEA Chairman Pankaj Mohindroo emphasized that smartphones are poised to become India’s top export commodity for the first time ever. India’s total mobile phone production is expected to reach ₹5.10 lakh crore in FY25, marking a spectacular rise from ₹2.20 lakh crore in FY21 to ₹4.22 lakh crore in FY24.
Mohindroo highlighted that the PLI scheme has played a crucial role in accelerating production, positioning India as a key player in the global electronics manufacturing ecosystem.
“We have achieved substantial scale, thanks to government support and the industry’s capabilities. The next phase will focus on enhancing competitiveness, expanding production, and strengthening the supply chain to drive India toward its ambitious $500 billion electronics manufacturing target,” Mohindroo stated.
India’s Race to Become the World’s Largest Smartphone Exporter
ICEA has warned against complacency, urging swift action to leverage current geopolitical opportunities.
“The opportunities ahead are immense, but the window is short — we must act swiftly,” Mohindroo said.
As India continues its upward trajectory in mobile phone exports, the country is well on its way to becoming the largest smartphone exporter globally, solidifying its role in the global electronics supply chain.
