Apple’s Secret Is Out; iPhones Tagged ‘Made in India’, Still Built in China

The strange and maybe even intriguing fact is that while many of the iPhone models sold in the US market are labeled "Made in India," the truth is that those phones are manufactured in China. So why this confusion? The answer lies in Apple's strategies, manufacturing strategy, and an international supply chain that has become quite complex.

‘Made in India’—The Paperwork?

India, as a manufacturing hub, is being developed by Apple currently. Major electronic manufacturing companies like Foxconn, Pegatron, and Wistron are assembling iPhones for Apple in India. In addition, through the "Make in India" project, the government is giving Apple a range of tax concessions and other benefits. Therefore, parts of iPhone SE, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 are being manufactured in India.

But why Is It Written ‘Made in India’ If It Is Made in China?

Some models are assembled in China mainly due to supply chain reasons, but later those phones go through a short finishing or packaging process in India. Through this small process, the phone can legally get the “Made in India” label. Even though the actual production or main components come from China.

How Is This ‘Made in India’ Label Useful in The US Market?

Tariff Saving: Due to the US-China trade war, additional taxes are imposed on Chinese products. ‘Made in India’ can avoid this additional tax.

Image Development: Indian products are now gaining credibility globally. This label has a positive impact on the minds of consumers.

Preparation for the future: The company wants to keep India ready as an alternative instead of relying solely on China.

Is India Becoming Apple’s Main Manufacturing Hub?

Currently, only 7%-8% of global iPhone production is done in India. However, experts say that this rate could reach 25%-30% by 2025. In other words, in the future, 'Made in India' will not just be a label, but also a reality.

The phrase "Made in India" does not imply that the phone was manufactured completely in India. The term is used often for strategic and commercial reasons; however, what stands true is that it is steadily making India an important manufacturing center for itself, thus paving the way for further Indian manufacturing on a larger scale in the future.