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OPINIONSmartphones are transforming India’s export story

18 0
15.10.2026

Indian electronics exports have surged on the back of smartphones, as the global electronics industry is reshaped by supply-chain diversification amid continuing trade tensions between the US and China. In August 2026, shipments of electronic goods rose 89.82 per cent year on year, from $2.93 billion to $5.55 billion -- the fastest growth among major export categories that month.

Total merchandise exports grew 26.1 per cent to $43.81 billion, with electronics accounting for nearly 13 per cent of the total. The increase reflects a combination of expanded production, stronger overseas orders and India’s growing role in global mobile-phone supply chains.

Smartphones, especially those assembled in India for major global brands, have driven much of the recent growth. The US is a key destination, alongside the UAE and several European markets.

In April–June 2026, smartphone exports reached a record $9.84 billion, close to 65 per cent of the $15.2 billion in total electronics exports, led by Apple’s iPhone shipments. Three forces came together: Apple’s vendors, Foxconn and Tata Electronics, continued shifting assembly to India; the United States remained by far the largest buyer; and production-linked incentives helped keep Indian output cost-competitive.

Mobile phones tell the story best. Mobile-phone production grew from about $2 billion in 2014–15 to $62 billion in 2024–25, making India the world’s second-largest mobile-phone manufacturer and third-largest smartphone........

© Mathrubhumi English