Apple CEO Tim Cook recently announced plans to boost investment in China.
So, what does this announcement mean for Apple’s growth plans in India?
According to Faisal Kawoosa, founder and chief analyst at Techarc, Apple's recent announcement in China does not conflict with its efforts in India.
Apple CEO Tim Cook recently announced plans to boost investment in China, aiming to strengthen the company’s role in the local supply chain. During a meeting with the Chinese government in Beijing, Cook emphasised Apple’s commitment to support the development of China’s industrial and supply chains. This marks Cook’s second visit to China this year, signalling Apple’s intention to maintain its presence in the world’s largest smartphone market, where it has been facing increased competition from domestic brands.
However, this move raises questions about Apple’s ‘Make in India’ ambitions. The tech giant has been actively expanding its operations in India, including manufacturing, retail, and other business functions. So, what does this announcement mean for Apple’s growth plans in India?
Also read: As Apple pushes for retail expansion in India, 400 people to be hired in different roles
According to Faisal Kawoosa, founder and chief analyst at Techarc, Apple’s recent announcement in China does not conflict with its efforts in India. In a statement to Digit and Times Network, Kawoosa explained, “I see this announcement mutually exclusive of Apple’s endeavours in India.”
He pointed out that Apple has been steadily expanding its manufacturing, retail, and other business functions in India, indicating a clear commitment to the market.
Apple’s Big India Push
Apple has been increasing its investment in India over the past few years, a strategy highlighted by the company’s decision to manufacture all models of the iPhone 16 series, including the Pro variants, within the country. Additionally, Apple plans to open four new retail stores in India, adding to the success of its flagship outlets in Mumbai and Delhi, which have been major revenue drivers. The company is also on a hiring spree, looking to recruit around 400 new employees to manage these upcoming stores, further cementing its commitment to the Indian market.
Also read: This is Tim Cook’s four word defence for Apple’s late entry into the AI race
Kawoosa added that both India and China are crucial consumer markets and integral to the smartphone value chain.
“India has risen to this stature in the past 5-6 years, where we can say it’s now an unavoidable value chain destination for the smartphone industry,” he said, while stressing that Cook’s announcement is unlikely to dilute Apple’s India strategy, and the company’s growth story in India will continue.
This perspective aligns with insights from TechInsights, which noted that despite trade tensions, China accounted for over 20 per cent of global iPhone shipments in Q2 2024. However, Apple’s market share in China declined by around 2 per cent compared to Q2 2023, mainly due to the rise of local brands like Huawei and the government’s encouragement to limit iPhone usage.
“This situation makes Cook’s efforts to enhance investment in China understandable, but it does not necessarily impact Apple’s focus on India,” Abhilash Kumar, Industry Analyst at TechInsights said.
He further emphasised that India remains a vital market for Apple, both as a supply hub and a sales market. The growing trend of premiumisation makes India an attractive location for Apple to expand. Recent moves, like opening more retail stores and assembling Pro models locally, reflect this strategy.
Follow Us
Ayushi Jain
Tech news writer by day, BGMI player by night. Combining my passion for tech and gaming to bring you the latest in both worlds. View Full Profile
