As Apple continues to expand its reach into international markets, it is looking to reduce its reliance on China by ramping up its manufacturing efforts in India. This move is part of a broader strategy to diversify the company’s supply chain and reduce its exposure to geopolitical risks.
According to a recent report by Bloomberg, Apple plans to triple its iPhone production in India in 2023, with the goal of making 25% of all iPhones in the country. This is a significant increase from previous years when India was mainly used to produce older iPhone models.
Apple has been steadily increasing the production of new iPhone models in India, and it now expects to ship some models of the iPhone 15 from both China and India simultaneously. However, due to raw material concerns, the stainless-steel iPhone 15 Pro models will continue to be made in China, while the aluminium iPhone 15 can be made in India.
To support its manufacturing efforts in India, Apple has been sending executives, including Priya Balasubramaniam, to the country more frequently. Additionally, an unspecified but key iPhone enclosure quality executive has reportedly been relocated from China to India.
This move towards increasing manufacturing in India is not limited to iPhones, as there are also rumours that Apple is considering producing the Apple Watch and iPad in the country. This is backed up by reports that Foxconn has been considering shifting some iPad production to India.
Overall, Apple’s efforts to reduce its reliance on China by expanding its manufacturing capabilities in India are a positive step towards diversifying its supply chain and reducing its exposure to geopolitical risks. With plans to triple iPhone production in India in 2023 and a goal of making 25% of all iPhones in the country, it’s clear that Apple is committed to building a stronger presence in India.