Tata to make iPhone for India & World, Will take over Wistron plant for $125 mn
The Tata Group is set to make history by becoming the first Indian company to manufacture iPhones for both domestic and global markets. This significant development comes as a result of Wistron Corp. agreeing to sell its plant in southern India to the Tata conglomerate. The deal, valued at $125 million, received approval from Wistron’s board, as confirmed in a statement by the Taiwanese electronics manufacturer.
The completion of the transaction is contingent on confirmation, signature of relevant agreements by both parties, and the necessary approvals. Afterward, Wistron will make official announcements and regulatory filings in accordance with applicable regulations.
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Union minister Rajeev Chandrashekhar commended the Tata team for taking over Wistron operations and expressed gratitude to Wistron for its contributions. He lauded the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, for the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, which has played a pivotal role in establishing India as a trusted and major hub for smartphone manufacturing and exports. Chandrashekhar also noted that Tata companies will now begin producing iPhones for both domestic and global markets within just two and a half years, marking a significant achievement.
Typically, Apple’s iPhones are assembled by Taiwanese manufacturing giants like Pegatron Corp. and Foxconn Technology Group. Wistron was one of three Taiwanese iPhone manufacturers in India, along with Foxconn and Pegatron.
Tata has been taking significant steps to expand its partnership with Apple, including a hiring spree at its factory in Hosur, near Bengaluru, where it produces iPhone components. The sprawling Hosur facility provides the potential for Tata to add iPhone manufacturing lines in the coming years. Moreover, Tata has announced its plans to launch 100 Apple stores across India, a country with a population of 1.4 billion.
This development not only signifies a major stride in Indian manufacturing capabilities but also underscores the growth and trust that Apple places in the Indian market for both manufacturing and retail expansion.
