Apple is increasingly shifting parts of its production to India. Now, Apple supplier Jabil plans to build a second factory in the state of Tamil Nadu. The goal is to expand production of plastic cases for AirPods. This decision is part of Apple's larger strategy to become less dependent on China and to broaden its global supply chain.
You've probably already noticed: Apple is increasingly turning its attention to India. The country is gaining strategic importance for the company – not only as a sales market, but above all as a production location. The reasons for this are clear: political tensions between the US and China, rising tariffs, and the desire for greater geographical independence. Jabil's new factory is another concrete step in precisely this direction.
Jabil expands production in Tamil Nadu
The US electronics manufacturer Jabil, headquartered in Florida, already produces Apple AirPods cases at its factory in Pune, western India. Now the company wants to expand its capacity and has planned a second factory in Tiruchirappalli, southern India. This will significantly expand local production in India. According to reports in the Economic Times, Jabil has already met with the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu to discuss the details of the project. Although construction of the new facility has not yet begun, the report says plans are expected to be completed by July 2025.
Background: Apple focuses on diversification
It's no coincidence that Apple is reorganizing its supply chain. Recent years have shown the vulnerability of an overly strong focus on China—whether due to trade disputes, Covid-related production downtime, or geopolitical uncertainty. Apple is therefore pursuing the goal of broadening its footprint. India plays a central role in this. Currently, around 20 percent of iPhones produced worldwide come from India. Apple intends to further increase this share. According to internal plans, by the end of next year, most iPhones sold in the US will be manufactured in India (via DigiTimes).
Further investments: Foxconn starts AirPods production
Other Apple suppliers are also investing in India. One example is Foxconn. The Taiwanese company recently began production of AirPods at its new factory in Hyderabad. The plant was built at a cost of approximately $400 million, and assembly began in April. The first AirPods produced are intended for the export market.
India becomes a central component in Apple's supply chain
Jabil's second factory is more than just an expansion of production capacity. It demonstrates that Apple is seriously realigning its global strategy. India is gradually becoming one of Apple's most important manufacturing locations. For you as an Apple user or tech enthusiast, this means: In the future, significantly more Apple products will be "Made in India" – not just for economic reasons, but also as a conscious, long-term decision. (Image: Shutterstock / Alexey87)
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