Foxconn could start assembling top-end iPhones in India as early as 2019. The move suggests a significant increase in Apple’s business in India.
iPhone X – made in India?
The iPhone X range could be manufactured in India by Tawainese manufacturer Foxconn’s local unit for the first time. The move might happen as early as 2019 (via Reuters). Foxconn already makes phones for Xiamoi in the country. However, manufacture of the iPhone X there would mark a significant increase in Apple’s business in India.
The work would take place at Foxconn’s plant in the town of Sriperumbudur, in the southern state of Tamil Nada. M. C. Sampath, the state’s Industry Minister, said the Foxconn will invest $356 to expand the plant. This will include investment in iPhone production. The investment could create up to 25,000 jobs, Mr. Sampath said.
In November, Apple hired Nokia’s Chief Customer Operations Officer, Ashish Chowdhary, to run its business in India. The move indicated that Apple was looking to expand in the country. Despite the presence of a large, technologically engaged, middle-class in the country, Apple has struggled to overcome the popularity of lower-priced competitors in India.