Foxconn Invests Further in India to Ramp Up Apple Device Manufacturing
Signalling a continued commitment to expanding Apple's manufacturing footprint in India, Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn has significantly increased its production capabilities. The move involves a substantial new investment in machinery aimed at boosting the output of Apple devices within the country.
New Machinery Investment
Foxconn Hon Hai Technology India Mega Development Private Limited, the company's Indian arm, has recently acquired new machinery and equipment valued at approximately $32.25 million (around ₹276 crore). According to sources cited in the report, this investment is specifically targeted at enhancing iPhone production capacity, with Foxconn reportedly working towards nearly doubling its iPhone output in India.
Expanding Product Lines
Beyond iPhones, Foxconn is also diversifying Apple's product manufacturing base in India. Production of Apple AirPods for the export market is reportedly slated to begin this month (April 2025) at Foxconn's facility in Hyderabad. This marks a significant step, making AirPods the second major Apple product category, after iPhones, to be manufactured locally.
Trade Context and Industry Proposals
This development occurs amidst ongoing discussions about international trade dynamics. Notably, the India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICEA) has proposed reducing the import duty on mobile phones imported from the U.S. to zero, down from the current 15%. ICEA argues that the U.S. isn't a primary manufacturing competitor in electronics and eliminating tariffs could unlock a substantial $80 billion mobile phone export market for India. While Foxconn's investment precedes today's US tariff deadline mentioned in the original article, it underscores the strategic importance of India in global electronics supply chains.
Deepening Roots
Foxconn's fresh ₹276 crore investment in machinery reinforces its role as a key player in Apple's 'Make in India' strategy. By ramping up iPhone production and initiating AirPods manufacturing, the company is not only boosting local production capabilities but also positioning India as an increasingly vital hub for exporting high-tech electronics globally.
