Apple’s Big Shift: Foxconn’s India Expansion in Full Swing Despite Trump’s Opposition
In a clear signal of its long-term commitment to India, Apple’s key manufacturing partner, Foxconn, is rapidly advancing its massive 300-acre facility in Devanahalli, Karnataka. The site, located just 34 km from Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport, is emerging as a vital hub in Apple’s strategy to reduce dependence on China.
Despite recent comments by former US President Donald Trump, who reportedly told Apple CEO Tim Cook, “I don’t want you building in India”, Apple is pushing forward with its India plans undeterred. The statement was made during Trump’s visit to Doha, Qatar, but it appears to have had little impact on the company’s supply chain decisions.
Apple CEO Tim Cook has reiterated the company’s commitment to shifting iPhone production to India, particularly for units destined for the US market. This is part of the broader “China-plus-one” strategy, aimed at diversifying Apple’s production base amid global geopolitical tensions.
According to a report by the Economic Times, Foxconn’s Devanahalli campus operations continued normally on Monday, with construction of worker dormitories entering the final stages. The dorms are a crucial component of Foxconn’s model, designed to house around 30,000 employees.
The Taiwanese electronics giant has pledged an investment of $2.56 billion (approximately Rs 21,000 crore) into the Devanahalli project. The first phase of development, spanning 2023–24, is being allocated Rs 3,000 crore, with a similar outlay scheduled for Phase 2 in 2026–27.
The facility is strategically placed between the villages of Doddagollahalli and Chapparadahalli in Devanahalli taluk, giving it access to major infrastructure and logistics channels.
With its largest contract manufacturer making such a bold move, Apple’s India ambitions appear not only firm but accelerating, laying the groundwork for India to become a global iPhone production powerhouse.
