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Apple's ambitious expansion into India continues to take shape with the imminent launch of Tata Electronics' iPhone manufacturing plant in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The facility, situated on a sprawling 250-acre site, is poised to become operational in November 2024, marking a significant milestone in Apple's efforts to diversify its manufacturing footprint beyond China.
The Hosur plant represents Apple's fourth assembly facility in India, adding to its existing presence in the country. Notably, it will be Tata Electronics' second manufacturing site dedicated to Apple's flagship smartphone line. This strategic partnership further solidifies the close ties between Apple and Tata, who already collaborate through a separate iPhone manufacturing unit acquired from Wistron Corp. in Karnataka.
The upcoming facility is expected to create a substantial number of jobs, with plans to employ 50,000 blue-collared workers, a majority of whom will be women. This will significantly contribute to India's workforce and further bolster the country's role in the global technology supply chain. The plant is anticipated to operate 20 assembly lines, showcasing Apple's commitment to large-scale production in India.
The expansion of Apple's manufacturing presence in India is driven by a desire to mitigate risks associated with relying heavily on a single production hub like China. Furthermore, the move aligns with Apple's broader strategy to localize its supply chain, reduce dependence on external suppliers, and enhance production efficiency. The company aims to manufacture over 50 million iPhones annually in India within the next two to three years, with further plans to produce tens of millions of additional units in subsequent periods.
The Hosur facility is not just about manufacturing iPhones; it signifies a larger shift in Apple's global operations. By fostering partnerships in countries like India, Thailand, Malaysia, and others, Apple aims to diversify its manufacturing base and minimize potential disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions or economic fluctuations. The success of this endeavor hinges on a smooth transition and effective collaboration between Apple, its suppliers, and local authorities to ensure a seamless and sustainable production process.
Source: Tata’s ₹6,000 crore Hosur facility to begin manufacturing iPhones in November 2024, says report