Apple and Samsung Dominate India's Smartphone Exports in 2024, Tata and Dixon Lead Manufacturing Growth

India’s smartphone manufacturing industry continues to experience remarkable growth, with Apple and Samsung leading the charge. According to a new Counterpoint report, the two tech giants accounted for nearly 94% of all smartphones exported from India in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push for self-reliance in electronics manufacturing. The surge in exports has been attributed to the companies leveraging the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which provides financial benefits for local manufacturing and exports.

@counterpointresearch

Apple and Samsung’s Dominance in Smartphone Exports

The rapid growth in India’s smartphone exports has been primarily fueled by Apple and Samsung’s aggressive expansion of local production. With the government’s favorable policies and rising global demand for ‘Made-in-India’ smartphones, both companies have significantly increased their manufacturing capabilities.

Samsung has strengthened its position as a key manufacturer, registering a 7% year-on-year (YoY) growth in exports. The brand continues to expand its manufacturing capacity to meet global demand.

Apple has been ramping up production in India, significantly contributing to the export surge. The company’s contract manufacturers, Foxconn and Tata Electronics, have played a crucial role in this growth.

Leading Smartphone Manufacturers in India in 2024

Apart from Apple and Samsung, several other manufacturers have contributed to India’s growing smartphone production. According to Counterpoint’s data:

Vivo secured the second spot with a 14% YoY growth, capturing a 14% market share in smartphone shipments due to an expanded offline retail network and distribution strategy.

Foxconn experienced a 19% YoY increase in shipment volume, primarily due to Apple’s rising production demands.

OPPO, however, faced a decline, dropping to the fourth position as its market share fell from 19% in 2023 to 12% in 2024 due to increased competition and its focus on contract manufacturing for OPPO and realme.

Tata Electronics: Fastest Growing Electronics Manufacturer in India

One of the standout performers in India’s electronics manufacturing landscape in 2024 was Tata Electronics, which recorded an impressive 107% YoY growth. This growth was driven by:

Increased iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 production.

Expansion of iPhone assembly facilities.

The establishment of a semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, Gujarat.

Ongoing development of an OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) plant in Assam.

Tata Electronics’ aggressive investments in semiconductor technology and smartphone assembly have positioned it as a key player in India’s electronics supply chain.

Dixon Technologies: India’s Top Electronics Manufacturer

While Tata Electronics emerged as the fastest-growing manufacturer, Dixon Technologies secured the top position in India’s overall mobile handset segment (smartphones and feature phones). The company witnessed a 39% YoY growth, largely driven by strong shipments from:

Motorola

Transsion brands (Infinix, Itel, Tecno)

New partnerships with realme

Dixon’s diversified portfolio and strategic partnerships have played a crucial role in its dominant position in India’s handset manufacturing ecosystem.

Future Outlook: Double-Digit Growth Expected in 2025

The report also highlights that India’s smartphone manufacturing industry is projected to grow in double digits in 2025, driven by increasing local value addition and a more resilient supply chain.

According to Senior Research Analyst Prachir Singh, global smartphone manufacturers are diversifying production to minimize risks associated with over-reliance on a single country. India’s advantages, such as a large domestic market, affordable labor, and government-backed incentives, make it an attractive manufacturing hub.

Similarly, Research Analyst Tanvi Sharma emphasized that companies like Foxconn Hon Hai are further strengthening local capabilities by setting up smartphone display module assembly units, which will enhance India’s manufacturing ecosystem.

Conclusion

India’s smartphone manufacturing sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with major global brands increasing their investments in local production. Apple and Samsung have cemented their dominance in smartphone exports, while Tata Electronics and Dixon Technologies are emerging as strong contenders in the electronics manufacturing space. With government-backed incentives, expanding local production, and growing export markets, India is poised to become a global hub for smartphone manufacturing in the coming years.