In a major development in Apple’s global manufacturing strategy, Foxconn has begun importing components for the iPhone 17 to India, signaling the start of trial production ahead of a likely September launch.

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India Rising in Apple’s Global Supply Chain Components for Older Models Still Dominate Labour Challenges at Foxconn India

According to a report by The Economic Times, key components such as display assemblies, cover glass, mechanical housings, and rear camera modules began arriving in India in June, marking the early stages of iPhone 17 assembly at Foxconn’s local facilities.

Full-scale production of the iPhone 17 is expected to begin in August.

India Rising in Apple’s Global Supply Chain

This move reflects Apple’s broader strategy to transform India into a key global export hub, reducing its dependence on China. Notably, iPhone exports from India to the U.S. jumped 219% year-on-year in March, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence.

Apple aims to completely shift U.S.-bound iPhone production to India by 2026, even as the U.S. pushes for more domestic manufacturing.

India’s role in Apple’s supply chain has been steadily growing. The country joined Apple’s New Product Introduction (NPI) process last year for iPhone 16 base models, a process previously exclusive to China. Now, Foxconn is expected to assemble even the Pro models of iPhone 17 in India, marking another milestone.

Components for Older Models Still Dominate

While iPhone 17 components made up around 10% of Foxconn’s total China-to-India shipments in June, most imports still supported ongoing production of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 16. These models are expected to sell in large volumes during India’s upcoming festive season.

Labour Challenges at Foxconn India

Despite this progress, labour-related challenges have surfaced at Foxconn’s India plant. A shortage of skilled engineers has emerged after many Chinese workers exited the country. To avoid delays in ramping up iPhone 17 production, Apple is tapping engineers from other countries as part of its contingency plan.

While Indian government officials are monitoring the situation, they are not yet alarmed. However, any prolonged workforce issues could impact Apple’s export timelines and derail its aggressive manufacturing goals in one of its fastest-growing markets.