Apple likely to produce quarter of iPhones in India by 2028, not half by 2027 as predicted

Zac Hall | May 21 2024 - 1:17 am PT

Apple plans to boost its iPhone production in India, increasing from below 15% to 25% by 2028. This target underscores Apple’s commitment to building a robust network of local suppliers and reducing its reliance on Chinese suppliers. It’s also a reality check on inflated projections made in recent reports.

Realistic expectations

Previous reports have claimed that 25% of iPhones would come from India by 2025 and 50% by 2027. However, Apple is more likely to increase India’s share of iPhone production from around 14% to 25% by 2028.

That’s a claim that’s somewhat backed up by Rajeev Chandrasekhar, India’s Union Minister of Electronics and IT. Chandrasekhar recently posted a screenshot of a local media report from this month that cited unnamed sources. The post highlighted the 25% by 2028 India iPhone production target.

Continued investment

As we’ve reported, Apple is focused on building a robust network of local vendors to reduce reliance on Chinese suppliers. India currently has 14 Apple supplier facilities. Analysts note that developing a local ecosystem is crucial for Apple’s long-term production goals.

With an expanding list of suppliers in India, including Flex Ltd, Jabil Inc, and Cheng Uei Precision Industry, Apple is positioning India as a vital hub in its global supply chain. This strategy not only boosts production but also supports local economies by integrating more Indian vendors into Apple’s supply chain.

With Tata Electronics set to finalize the acquisition of Pegatron’s assets, and existing facilities expanding, India is fast becoming a critical player in Apple’s global manufacturing network.

If nothing else, this reality check underscores the long haul process for Apple of diversifying iPhone production outside of China. The years-long effort is anything but an overnight flip of the switch transition.