Introduction
In a landmark move, Apple has decided to manufacture its entire iPhone 17 series in India, marking a historic shift in its global production strategy. This step is expected to boost Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Make in India initiative, create thousands of jobs, and strengthen India’s position as a premium device manufacturing hub. Experts say this strategy will also help Apple avoid heavy import duties while expanding its export potential.
iPhone 17 Made in India Manufacturing to Boost Jobs and Exports
According to industry experts, Apple’s decision to produce the iPhone 17 Made in India manufacturing project through partners Foxconn and Tata Electronics in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka will have far-reaching benefits. By localizing production, Apple will avoid the 20% import duty imposed on fully-assembled phones, making India an even more attractive market for its operations.
Grant Thornton Bharat expert Krishan Arora highlighted that this move will significantly increase employment opportunities, accelerate exports, and enhance India’s credibility in the high-tech manufacturing sector. He added that Apple’s strategy also shields it from future global trade challenges, such as rising tariffs in the United States.
Government Incentives Strengthen Apple’s India Strategy
Apple is also set to benefit from the Indian government’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which provides 4–6% cash incentives for five years on locally manufactured and sold devices. Thanks to this program, Apple’s contract manufacturers exported iPhones worth $10 billion in the 2024–25 fiscal year. In the first half of 2025 alone, exports surged 53%, reaching 23.9 million units.
State governments in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are offering additional support, including tax rebates, easier environmental clearances, and affordable land for factory expansion. These measures are aimed at making India a global hub for advanced technology production.
Will iPhone Prices Drop in India?
Despite the large-scale manufacturing shift, experts caution that Indian customers should not expect immediate price cuts on iPhones. Krishan Arora clarified that while manufacturing in India reduces costs for Apple, local pricing depends on several factors such as distribution, marketing, and global demand.
FAQs on iPhone 17 Made in India Manufacturing
Q1: Why is Apple manufacturing the iPhone 17 in India?
Apple aims to support the Make in India initiative, avoid high import duties, expand exports, and create a resilient supply chain.
Q2: Will iPhone 17 prices be cheaper in India?
Not immediately. Experts say prices may stabilize in the long term, but Apple’s initial focus is on export growth and market expansion.
Q3: Which companies are making the iPhone 17 in India?
Apple’s production partners — Foxconn and Tata Electronics — are leading the manufacturing process in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Conclusion
Apple’s decision to manufacture the entire iPhone 17 series in India is a turning point for both the company and the country’s technology sector. While Indian buyers may not see instant price reductions, the long-term benefits of job creation, export growth, and India’s emergence as a trusted global tech hub are undeniable.