Apple is set to manufacture its upcoming iPhone 16 Pro models in India, marking the first time the company will produce its high-end devices outside of China. This move is part of Apple’s strategy to diversify its manufacturing footprint beyond China, motivated by ongoing geopolitical tensions and the desire to secure long-term stability in its supply chain.
The iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will be produced by Foxconn in India, which has been preparing for this transition by training thousands of workers to meet Apple’s stringent quality standards. The production is expected to begin shortly after the global launch of the iPhone 16 series, aiming to increase India’s share of Apple’s global production from the current 10% to 25% by next year​.
While manufacturing in India could potentially reduce production costs, it remains unclear if this will lead to lower retail prices for customers, especially in India, due to high component costs and local taxes. Most of the units produced in India are likely to be exported to other markets, including Europe, West Asia, and the US, given the lower domestic demand for these premium models​.
Overall, Apple’s decision to produce the iPhone 16 Pro in India reflects a broader trend of companies seeking to diversify their manufacturing bases amid global uncertainties and is expected to significantly boost India’s role in the global electronics manufacturing ecosystem​.
