From record-breaking exports to Apple’s premium push, India’s smartphone surge signals a turning point in global manufacturing ambitions.
India’s smartphone industry has recorded a significant milestone, with overseas shipments reaching $30 billion in calendar year 2025, according to Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
The minister described the achievement as a step forward in India’s ambition to establish itself as a global manufacturing hub.
Figures shared by the ministry show that mobile phones worth approximately ₹5.5 trillion ($60 billion) were produced domestically during the year. Of this, exports accounted for around ₹2 trillion ($22 billion) in the 2024–25 financial year.
Smartphones have now overtaken other categories to become the country’s top export segment, driven largely by Apple and Samsung.
Industry analysts note that Apple has played a pivotal role in boosting export momentum, particularly after expanding production in India in response to US tariffs on China.
Counterpoint Research estimates that India produced nearly 300 million mobile phones in 2025, with one in four units shipped abroad. High-value models, especially those destined for the US market, contributed significantly to the overall export value.
Electronics exports more broadly crossed ₹4 trillion ($44 billion) in 2025, with further growth anticipated as four semiconductor plants are expected to begin operations this year. This expansion is seen as a crucial step in strengthening India’s electronics supply chain and reducing reliance on imports.
Data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) indicates that Apple also achieved record domestic sales in the September quarter of 2025, selling 5 million iPhones. The company led both the premium and super-premium segments, priced above ₹53,000, underscoring its dual role in driving growth in both domestic and international markets.
Analysts expect the trend to continue as production capacity expands and demand for premium devices remains strong.
