Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai.In a significant move to boost iPhone production in India, Tata Electronics has acquired a 60% stake in Pegatron Technology India, the company responsible for manufacturing the iPhone 13 and 14 models. This acquisition is expected to strengthen India's ‘Make in India’ initiative while solidifying Tata's position in the electronics manufacturing industry. Previously, Tata Electronics had acquired the India operations of Taiwan-based Wistron for $125 million, further establishing its foothold in iPhone manufacturing.
Strategic Expansion and Rebranding
Post-acquisition, Tata Electronics and Pegatron India will integrate their teams, and Pegatron India will be rebranded under the new ownership. Tata Electronics CEO and MD, Dr. Randhir Thakur, highlighted that this acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy to enhance its manufacturing capacity. He added that Tata Electronics is poised to usher in a new era of AI and digitally-led manufacturing in India.
Pegatron's Role in iPhone Production
Pegatron’s India plant is currently responsible for manufacturing iPhone 13 and 14 models and employs nearly 10,000 workers. Earlier this month, Tata Electronics received approval for the acquisition from the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Established as a greenfield venture in 2020, Tata Electronics now employs over 50,000 people and operates in key locations such as Gujarat, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.
iPhone Manufacturing in India: A Growing Industry
India now has three major players in iPhone manufacturing: Foxconn, Tata, and Pegatron. The government’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the rising demand for premium products have contributed significantly to Apple’s growth in India. In 2024, Apple’s iPhone exports from India crossed the ₹1 lakh crore mark, showcasing a robust rise in production and exports.
Impressive Growth Figures for Apple
Industry reports indicate that Apple exported iPhones worth $12 billion last year, a 40% increase compared to 2023. Domestic production also grew by 46%, reflecting India’s growing prominence in Apple’s global supply chain. Moreover, the Apple ecosystem in India has created 1,75,000 jobs over the past four years, with 72% of these roles being held by women.
A Promising Future for India’s Electronics Sector
Tata Electronics’ acquisition of Pegatron India marks a major milestone in India’s journey as a global hub for electronics manufacturing. With continued investments, strategic expansions, and government support, India is expected to play an increasingly significant role in meeting the global demand for premium electronics, further reinforcing its position in the global supply chain.
