India Emerges as Key Player in Global Smartphone Supply Chain

New Delhi: In a striking development that underscores India’s growing clout in global manufacturing, the country now accounts for nearly one-third of all smartphones imported by the United States. This shift signals not just an economic milestone, but also a reshaping of global supply chains that were long centered around China.

For years, China has dominated the smartphone manufacturing space, supplying components and finished products to markets across the world. However, geopolitical tensions, rising costs, and the global push for supply chain diversification have prompted tech giants to rethink their strategies — and India has stepped up to fill the gap.

Major players like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi have been expanding their production bases in India. Apple's iPhones are now being assembled in India at a scale never seen before, with Foxconn and other suppliers ramping up output. Samsung, meanwhile, operates one of its largest mobile manufacturing plants in Noida.

This transformation hasn’t come overnight. Backed by government initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, India has made itself an attractive destination for electronics manufacturing. These policies have not only encouraged foreign investment but also created thousands of jobs and boosted exports.

Analysts believe that the shift is more than just a short-term reaction to global uncertainty. “India is positioning itself as a reliable alternative to China, and the results are already showing,” says Ankit Gupta, a trade analyst with the Indian Electronics Association. “We are seeing increasing trust from multinational brands and governments alike.”

The ripple effects are visible on the ground. New factories are being set up in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh. Ancillary industries — from chip testing to packaging — are also growing, creating an ecosystem that supports long-term growth.

More than just boosting exports, this manufacturing surge is helping India climb the value chain. “It’s not just assembling anymore,” adds Gupta. “We’re seeing more localized components, better skills, and a focus on quality.”