The Indian government has reportedly rejected Apple’s request to import and sell refurbished iPhones in the country. An official from the telecommunications ministry told Bloomberg that the application for importing and selling refurbished iPhones submitted by the company has been rejected. Apple had filed the application earlier this year, which would have also included setting up a facility that would renovate used iPhones shipped from China.
Apple had earlier requested permission to import one lac used iPhones and 2.5 lac iPads in order to explore the refurbished electrical and electronics equipment market. However, the request was turned down by the Environment Ministry’s Technical review committee, who said that this would add to India’s e-waste. Refurbished electrical and electronics equipment had shorter functional life and became obsolete faster, which in turn would increase e-waste. In addition, Apple is also planning to open its retail stores in India. The company has reportedly filed an application to open its stores with the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, and is on the lookout for prime locations to open flagship stores.
Apple CEO, Tim Cook has noted that Apple is looking at the Indian market to drive revenue and growth. He noted that while the overall growth slowed by 32% in Greater China and 11% in Mainland China, iPhone sales have risen by 56% in India.