Apple is in discussions with Bharat Forge, a Kalyani Group company, as part of its ongoing efforts to expand its supplier network in India. The potential collaboration would see Bharat Forge manufacturing components and mechanical parts for Apple, strengthening the country’s position as a key hub in Apple’s global supply chain.
The move aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of diversifying production and reducing reliance on China, a shift accelerated by geopolitical factors and supply chain disruptions in recent years.
Expanding Apple’s Supplier Base in India
Apple is expanding its supplier network in India, working with Tata Group, Motherson Group, Aequs, Sunwoda, and Foxlink for iPhone components. The company is also investing in local battery production. Amperex Technology Ltd (ATL) will soon start battery cell manufacturing in Manesar, Haryana.
Motherson Group, in partnership with BIEL Crystal Manufactory, is seeking government approval to join Apple’s supply chain. Apple plans to increase local suppliers for iPhone enclosures. This will complement the Tata unit in Tamil Nadu, which has already started producing enclosures for Indian assembly plants.
Apple’s Growing Manufacturing Footprint in India
India is now a key market for Apple’s manufacturing expansion. In 2024, Apple produced iPhones worth $17.5 billion, with $12.8 billion exported. Since joining India’s PLI scheme in 2020, Apple has increased local value addition from 5-8% to 20% across various iPhone models.
Apple currently operates three iPhone assembly units in India:
- Foxconn’s facility in Tamil Nadu, the largest assembly unit.
- Two Tata-run facilities in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, which Apple acquired from Wistron.
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Bharat Forge: A Strategic Partner for Apple
Bharat Forge, part of the Kalyani Group, is a leading Indian manufacturer operating in automotive, aerospace, defense, and energy sectors, with a workforce of around 5,000 employees. The company’s expertise in precision manufacturing and mechanical components makes it a strong candidate for Apple’s supply chain expansion.
India has attracted international suppliers from China, Japan, and Taiwan, establishing local manufacturing units to meet Apple’s growing demand. As Apple accelerates localization and supply chain diversification, Bharat Forge’s potential entry could further strengthen India’s position in global electronics manufacturing.
Apple’s growing investment in India aligns with the country’s ambitions to become a global manufacturing powerhouse. India is poised to be a key alternative to China for high-value electronics manufacturing.
