India has solidified its position as a major global hub for smartphone manufacturing, with Apple's iPhone exports from the country reaching an unprecedented $13.2 billion between April and August. This remarkable figure represents a substantial 47% increase compared to Apple's iPhone exports during the same period last year.
According to reports, iPhones alone accounted for a dominant 82% of India's total smartphone exports, which collectively hit $15.96 billion over the five-month period. This overall smartphone export value reflects a 36% year-on-year growth. The surge in smartphone exports has also contributed significantly to India's broader electronics export sector, which saw a 34% rise to $26.66 billion, with contributions from other manufacturers like Samsung and Dixon.
Smartphones Become India's Top Export Category
An official familiar with the matter stated that smartphones are now India's top-ranked export commodity. This achievement is partly attributed to a new mobile phone manufacturing scheme introduced in April 2026, which has actively supported companies like Apple in expanding their manufacturing and export operations within India.
The momentum generated by Apple's increased production has been so impactful that the $15.96 billion in mobile exports recorded for the first five months of FY27 already surpasses India's entire smartphone export total of $15.8 billion for the full FY24 fiscal year.
Apple Deepens India Manufacturing Roots
Apple is not only rapidly expanding its iPhone production capabilities in India but also actively building up its local supplier network. This strategic expansion enables India's supply chain to manufacture new flagship iPhones, which are then exported to global markets almost immediately following their launch.
For instance, units of the latest iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max models manufactured in India were reportedly sold globally from the very first day of sales, alongside those produced in China. Furthermore, the majority of iPhones sold within India itself are now manufactured locally, underscoring the significant growth and localization of Apple's production footprint in the country.
Expanding Component Production and Retail Presence
Beyond final assembly, Apple has progressively moved towards manufacturing more components within India. This includes critical parts such as enclosures, PCB assemblies (PCBAs), mechanical components, housing, flexible PCB assemblies, and conductive graphite buttons used for functions like volume and power controls.
In parallel with its manufacturing expansion, Apple is also gradually increasing its retail presence across India. This dual strategy highlights the company's long-term commitment to one of the world's fastest-growing smartphone markets, reinforcing both its manufacturing prowess and brand visibility in the region.