Is India Now the Largest Smartphone Supplier to the US?
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Synopsis
India has achieved a major milestone as the largest smartphone supplier to the US, with production growing sixfold. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlights the significant increase in electronics manufacturing and exports, showcasing India's rising status in the global tech supply chain.
Key Takeaways
- India is now the largest smartphone supplier to the US.
- Electronics production in India has grown sixfold in 11 years.
- Mobile manufacturing units increased from 2 in 2014 to 300 today.
- 99.2% of mobile phones sold in India are now manufactured locally.
- Net mobile phone exports have soared significantly.
Mumbai, Aug 10 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement, India has emerged as the largest provider of smartphones to the United States, as announced by Union Railways & IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during the inauguration of Metro projects in Bengaluru on Sunday.
The minister noted that India's electronics production has seen a staggering sixfold increase over the past 11 years, now valued at Rs 12 lakh crore. Additionally, electronic exports have surged eightfold, reaching Rs 3 lakh crore during the same timeframe.
Vaishnaw emphasized that India has become the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer globally, underlining the country's strengthening role in the tech supply chain.
In the first quarter of FY26, India accounted for 44 percent of all smartphones imported into the US, a significant rise from just 13 percent in the corresponding period last year.
The majority of the reduction in US smartphone shipments assembled in China has been offset by India, primarily driven by Apple's 'China Plus One' strategy.
India now boasts 300 mobile manufacturing units, a leap from just two in 2014. In FY14, a mere 26 percent of mobile phones sold in India were produced domestically, which has now skyrocketed to 99.2 percent, according to government statistics.
The manufacturing value of mobile phones has also escalated from Rs 18,900 crore in FY14 to Rs 4.22 lakh crore in FY24.
This remarkable growth aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a global technology hub and showcases the nation's increasing competitiveness in the international arena.
Alongside China and Vietnam, India has established itself as a significant contender in global electronics manufacturing, with companies relocating production to diversify their supply chains.
Net mobile phone exports soared from $0.2 billion in 2017-18 to $24.1 billion in 2024-25. This success stems from government backing since 2017 and strategic integration into global value chains (GVCs) following the launch of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.
Point of View
India's ascent as the largest smartphone supplier to the US signifies a pivotal shift in global manufacturing dynamics. This achievement reflects the country's commitment to enhancing its technological capabilities and economic competitiveness. The government’s strategic initiatives have played a crucial role in fostering this growth, ensuring that India remains a key player in the international marketplace.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India's current position in smartphone supply to the US?
India has become the largest supplier of smartphones to the United States, accounting for 44% of the market in Q1 FY26.
How much has India's electronics production grown?
India's electronics production has increased sixfold over the past 11 years, reaching a value of Rs 12 lakh crore.
What percentage of mobile phones sold in India are manufactured domestically?
Currently, 99.2% of mobile phones sold in India are produced domestically, a significant rise from just 26% in FY14.
What factors contributed to India's rise in mobile manufacturing?
Government support and the implementation of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme have significantly contributed to India's growth in mobile manufacturing.
How have net mobile phone exports changed in recent years?
Net mobile phone exports have increased from $0.2 billion in 2017-18 to $24.1 billion in 2024-25, demonstrating India's growing presence in the global market.
