Apple’s iPhone Shift to India Advances Despite Chinese Hurdles as iPhone 17 Trials Begin
Rapid Growth in Indian iPhone Production Amid Global Trade Tensions
Apple’s strategic manufacturing shift from China to India is gathering pace, with the company assembling iPhones worth $22 billion in India during the 12 months ending March 2025. This marks a nearly 60% year-on-year increase, driven by Apple’s larger ambition to localize production and mitigate geopolitical risks, particularly from ongoing U.S.-China trade frictions. Apple has already commenced trial production for the iPhone 17 series in India as part of this larger push.
Highlights
Apple assembled $22 billion worth of iPhones in India in FY25, up 60% YoY.
$17.5 billion worth of these iPhones were exported, as per the IT Minister.
Trial runs for the iPhone 17 series are now underway in India.
Foxconn’s new Bengaluru plant is expected to become operational by April-end.
Apple aims to shift all U.S.-bound iPhone production to India by end-2026.
Full-Scale Production Shift Planned by 2026
Under Apple’s new supply chain strategy, the company aims to shift over 60 million iPhones annually—enough to meet all U.S. demand—to Indian production lines by 2026. This unprecedented move is intended to reduce dependence on Chinese facilities amid persistent tensions between Beijing and Washington. Sources familiar with the matter told Moneycontrol that Apple recently shipped 1.5 million iPhones to the U.S. via chartered cargo from India, not only to avoid tariffs but also to test India’s ability to handle demand spikes. The success of this logistical test further solidified Apple’s confidence in its India roadmap.
Highlights
Apple’s goal: manufacture 60 million iPhones annually in India by 2026.
The company already tested India’s capacity with a 1.5 million iPhone air shipment.
All iPhones sold in the U.S. may be made in India by end-2026.
Trade talks between China and the U.S. may still influence the pace of this transition.
China Emerges as a Bottleneck in India Expansion Plans
Despite progress, Apple’s expansion in India is being slowed by delays at Chinese ports. According to industry executives, Chinese authorities are increasingly obstructing the export of advanced manufacturing equipment necessary for Apple’s Indian facilities. These issues, which began in 2024, have intensified recently. Shipments are reportedly being withheld or delayed without explanation. Some suppliers are even rerouting equipment via Southeast Asia to avoid Chinese bottlenecks.
Highlights
Key production equipment is being blocked or delayed at Chinese ports.
Some suppliers have resorted to rerouting machinery through Southeast Asia.
Apple and its suppliers are coordinating with India’s electronics and external affairs ministries to resolve the issue.
Foxconn, Tata at Forefront of India Push
Foxconn, Apple’s top contract manufacturer, is leading the ramp-up with a new plant in Bengaluru, expected to begin operations within April 2025. The facility is set to manufacture up to 20 million units at peak capacity. Meanwhile, Tata Electronics is also playing a significant role by producing components for the upcoming iPhone 17, particularly device casings. Foxconn and Tata’s increasing involvement signals a maturing Indian electronics manufacturing ecosystem, vital to Apple’s long-term diversification goals.
Highlights
Foxconn’s Bengaluru facility to be operational within April 2025.
Tata Electronics producing iPhone 17 components, including casings.
Together, they are instrumental in Apple’s effort to scale operations in India.
India’s Share of Global iPhone Production Expanding Rapidly
India’s role in Apple’s global manufacturing is expanding rapidly. In 2024, India contributed about 18–20% of global iPhone production. Analysts project this could rise to 25–30% in 2025. IDC’s Upasna Joshi estimates that to meet a 40% global production share, Apple will need to double its Indian output to 80–90 million units. This level of scale will only be achievable if Apple’s suppliers can secure unhindered access to critical machinery and components, much of which still originates in China.
Highlights
India produced 40–45 million iPhones in 2024.
Expected to reach 25–30% of global output by 2025.
Targeting 80–90 million units to reach 40% production share.
Analysts warn delays from China could disrupt these goals.
Growing Confidence in India’s Ecosystem Amid Global Uncertainty
Despite the logistical hurdles, industry stakeholders remain optimistic. Apple maintains close communication with Indian government agencies, seeking support to expedite equipment clearances and ensure smooth operations. Tarun Pathak of Counterpoint said Apple’s partners like Foxconn and Tata are proving capable, but the real test lies in scaling efficiently. Meanwhile, Pankaj Mohindroo of the India Cellular and Electronics Association emphasized the importance of a robust bilateral trade agreement with the U.S. and competitiveness benchmarks with China and Vietnam for India to fully realize its manufacturing potential.
Highlights
Apple remains in constant dialogue with Indian authorities.
Industry analysts support India’s potential to meet U.S. iPhone demand.
India’s electronics manufacturing sector is evolving into a cost-competitive base.
A U.S.-India trade deal and comparative policy support will be vital for sustained growth.
