India’s smartphone exports reached a new milestone of Rs 20,000 crore in November 2024. This represents a remarkable 92% increase from Rs 10,634 crore in November 2023, as reported. Clearly, this surge reflects the booming success of India’s smartphone manufacturing sector, with global giants like Apple and Samsung playing a major role.
Apple Takes the Lead
Apple has emerged as the leader in this export growth. In November, the company recorded exports worth Rs 14,000 crore, setting a new high for Apple in India. This figure surpasses its previous record of Rs 12,000 crore in October. As a result, Apple now accounts for over 80% of the production value of iPhones assembled in India.
Moreover, Apple’s key partners—Foxconn, Tata Electronics, and Pegatron—were instrumental in reaching this achievement. Notably, Foxconn’s Tamil Nadu facility was the largest contributor. Consequently, Apple’s performance has exceeded its commitment under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, which targeted 70-75% export value for FY25.
Samsung and Other Contributors
In addition to Apple, Samsung and Indian manufacturers also contributed to the export growth. Together, Apple and Samsung dominate the sector, solidifying India’s position as a growing global smartphone manufacturing hub.
PLI Scheme Boosts Growth
The success of India’s smartphone export sector can largely be attributed to the PLI scheme. Since its launch, the scheme has helped elevate the sector from India’s 23rd-largest export in 2019 to the third-largest in 2024. Additionally, it has driven the overall growth of electronics exports, moving them from seventh place in 2019 to third in FY25.
According to the India Cellular & Electronics Association, the scheme has generated Rs 1.1 trillion in taxes and duties on mobile components. Furthermore, the sector has contributed Rs 2.87 trillion in exports over the past four years. This growth has also resulted in the creation of 300,000 direct jobs and 600,000 indirect jobs, many of which have been filled by young women entering the workforce for the first time.
India’s Electronics Sector Poised for Growth
As exports continue to break records, India’s electronics sector is undergoing a major transformation. The success in smartphone manufacturing and exports underscores India’s growing competitiveness in global supply chains. With Apple, Samsung, and other manufacturers expanding their operations, India’s position as a leading exporter of high-value electronics is set to strengthen further in the years to come.