Foxconn Likely to Assemble iPads in India, Plans to Expand Assembling at Tamil Nadu Facility

Foxconn is reportedly planning to expand and broaden its operational role by assembling iPads in the country. The tech giant is considering to use its Tamil Nadu facility to expand its current role, as per the Economic Times

"Some rounds of discussions have already happened with the government as well on this," as per a source cited in the report.

"Their experience so far has been very good, and they are coming full force. They will double what they have in the next few years, which includes iPhone, iPad and some other products too," the sources added.

The Taiwanese contract manufacturer's ambition for expansion would have stemmed from the growing popularity of Apple smartphones and its accessories in India. Apple saw 33 per cent jump in its sales in the financial year 2024 showcasing its increasing demand in the Indian smartphone market.

Soon, Foxconn would start assembling iPads at its Sriperumbudur facility in Tamil Nadu. A major proportion of Apple Inc.'s manufacturing takes place at the Sriperumbudur facility.

On Apple's diversification plan in India, the source informed, "Mac range of laptops may take some time as the production volume is very small." As per the industry experts, the requirement to produce iPads is similar to that of iPhones. However, the laptop manufacturing process is complex which is why the expansion currently is focused on iPads.

Apple's expansion of its production functions in India is happening at the same time as the iPhone manufacturer pulling its hands back from China. Last year, Apple moved a chunk of its product manufacturing of iPad from China to Vietnam.

The recent development related to expansion was hinted at by Apple's CEO Tim Cook in Apple's earnings call in May. He said, "I see it as an incredibly exciting market and it's a major focus for us," about expanding the market for his company's product in India.