Apple is rumored to begin iPhone 17 production in India; meanwhile, Dixon and Tata are stepping up their display and semiconductor ventures.
Apple reportedly produces full iPhone 17 lineup in India despite tariff headwinds
Despite fresh concerns over US President Donald Trump's decision to impose a punitive 50% tariff on Indian exports, global electronics manufacturers are pressing ahead with expansion in India. Multiple media outlets indicate that Foxconn and Tata had been producing iPhone 17 in India ahead of the upcoming iPhone event in September.
Foxconn reportedly recalls 300 Chinese engineers from India, appoints Robert Wu as new India Representative
Foxconn subsidiary Yuzhan Technology has recalled roughly 300 Chinese engineers from its India facility, marking the second such instance in recent months, sources told the Economic Times. The move comes amid ongoing geopolitical sensitivities and reflects Beijing's broader strategy to control technology transfers to emerging manufacturing hubs like India. Authorities in China reportedly also asked Foxconn chairman Young Liu to submit a report detailing the company's investments in India.
Dixon Technologies, HKC seal joint venture agreement for display manufacturing in India
Dixon Technologies formed a joint venture with China's HKC, highlighting a thaw in India-China business ties, even as US President Donald Trump's 50% tariff on Indian goods unsettles global trade. The deal underscores India's balancing act, welcoming Chinese investment to boost manufacturing while navigating shifting geopolitical and economic headwinds.
Tata reportedly seeks specialty chemical supplier as India clears new semiconductor projects
Tata Electronics is in talks with German chemicals major Merck to secure an exclusive long-term supply agreement for high-purity materials crucial to chipmaking, people familiar with the matter told The Economic Times. The discussions, centered on Tata's upcoming semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, Gujarat, reflect the company's efforts to strengthen upstream supply chains as it advances India's most ambitious chip venture.
OpenAI launches affordable ChatGPT subscription in India to encourage free users to upgrade
OpenAI has introduced a new subscription tier, ChatGPT Go, tailored specifically for the Indian market and priced at INR399 per month (about US$4.6). The move aims to boost paid subscriptions by offering a more affordable option compared to existing plans.
Modi emphasizes self-reliance, announces reforms as protectionism rises
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi used his Independence Day address on August 15, 2025, to make a sweeping case for self-reliance, presenting it as both a matter of national dignity and an economic shield in an era of growing global protectionism. Speaking as the US under President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian exports, Modi urged citizens and industries to accelerate the push toward "Viksit Bharat," or a developed India, by strengthening domestic capabilities across critical sectors.
Article edited by Jerry Chen
