Did Apple’s iPhone CY25 Exports from India Surpass Rs 2 Lakh Crore for the First Time?
Synopsis
Apple's iPhone exports from India have reached an unprecedented milestone of Rs 2 lakh crore in 2025, marking the company's commitment to local manufacturing. With a surge in production and innovative strategies, Apple is establishing itself as a key player in the Indian tech market. Discover how this impacts India's economy and the global smartphone landscape.
Key Takeaways
Apple’s iPhone exports surpassed Rs 2 lakh crore for the first time in 2025.
Exports increased by nearly 85% compared to 2024.
Apple operates five assembly plants in India.
Smartphones are now India’s largest export category.
Over 99% of mobile phones sold in India are made domestically.
New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) - For the first time since the commencement of domestic production in 2021, US tech powerhouse Apple Inc has seen its iPhone exports from India exceed Rs 2 lakh crore in 2025, according to industry statistics.
During the period from January to December 2025, exports from the tech titan reached an unprecedented $23 billion or Rs 2.03 lakh crore, marking an increase of nearly 85 percent compared to 2024.
With approximately three months remaining before the conclusion of Apple’s five-year Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) window, the company’s strategy in India has prominently focused on boosting iPhone exports.
In the first nine months of FY26, iPhone exports amounted to nearly $16 billion, pushing the total shipments during the PLI period beyond the $50 billion threshold.
For context, Samsung exported devices valued at around $17 billion during its five-year eligibility under the scheme from FY21 to FY25.
Apple’s manufacturing presence in India encompasses five iPhone assembly facilities—three operated by entities of the Tata Group and two by Foxconn—backed by a supply chain of approximately 45 companies, including numerous MSMEs that provide components for both local and international operations.
Primarily driven by iPhone shipments, which accounted for about 75 percent of total smartphone exports, smartphones ascended to become India’s leading export category in FY25, a notable rise from their position of 167 among export items in 2015.
India has emerged as the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer, with over 99 percent of phones sold locally now categorized as Made in India, moving up the manufacturing value chain.
The smartphone PLI scheme is set to wrap up in March 2026, although the government is reportedly considering options to extend support. Under revised regulations, companies are permitted to claim incentives for any five consecutive years within a six-year timeframe.
Moreover, Apple recorded sales of approximately 6.5 million iPhone 16 units within the first 11 months of 2025, making it the top-selling smartphone in the country.
Point of View
The rise of Apple’s iPhone exports signifies a pivotal moment for India's manufacturing sector and its aspirations to become a global tech hub. The significant increase in exports not only strengthens the economy but also enhances India's position in the global supply chain. This achievement reflects the successful implementation of the PLI scheme and the potential for further growth in the tech industry.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did Apple's iPhone exports increase in 2025?
Apple's iPhone exports from India increased by nearly 85 percent in 2025, reaching a record $23 billion or Rs 2.03 lakh crore.
What is the significance of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme?
The PLI scheme incentivizes companies like Apple to increase local production and exports, thereby boosting India's economy and manufacturing capabilities.
How does Apple compare to Samsung in exports during the PLI period?
During the PLI period from FY21 to FY25, Apple exported over $50 billion worth of iPhones, while Samsung exported around $17 billion.
What percentage of smartphone exports do iPhones represent?
iPhones accounted for approximately 75 percent of total smartphone exports from India.
What is the future of Apple's manufacturing in India?
Apple's manufacturing in India is expected to expand, especially with the PLI scheme potentially being extended, enhancing its production capabilities.
