In an effort to diversify its supply sources and reduce dependency on China, Apple Inc. has reportedly entered into a contract with Tata Group, India’s largest conglomerate, to manufacture iPhones in India. According to a recent report by TrendForce, the Cupertino-based tech giant will collaborate with Tata Group to produce the upcoming iPhone 15 series, consisting of four models: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. This partnership marks the addition of Tata Group as the fourth assembler for Apple, joining the existing manufacturers Foxconn, Pegatron, and Wistron. The decision to engage Tata Group as a manufacturing partner is seen as a strategic move by Apple.
With the acquisition of Wistron’s Indian production line, Tata Group possesses the necessary infrastructure and expertise to support iPhone production. Moreover, given the conglomerate’s reputation and influence in India, it is anticipated that the country will be among the first to receive shipments of the new iPhone series. Apple’s growing interest in India as a manufacturing hub is part of its broader strategy to reduce reliance on China amid geopolitical tensions and disruptions caused by strict Covid policies. According to Bloomberg News, India’s significance in Apple’s supply chain has been steadily increasing, with the country accounting for 7% of iPhone production in the past year, up from just 1% in 2021.
This upward trend reflects Apple’s efforts to establish a more diversified and resilient supply network. In addition to iPhones, Apple is reportedly considering expanding its manufacturing operations in India to include iPads and iPods. By leveraging India’s skilled workforce and favorable business environment, Apple aims to enhance its production capabilities and mitigate risks associated with overreliance on a single manufacturing location. As Apple ventures further into India’s manufacturing landscape through its collaboration with Tata Group, the tech giant’s diversification efforts are expected to strengthen, bolstering its position in the global market and ensuring a steady supply of its popular iPhone series to consumers worldwide.