India’s Mobile Manufacturing Revolution: 1,700% Growth in a Decade, Exports Surge 5600% – IT Minister

The mobile phone production in India has experienced a remarkable growth of over 1,700% in the past decade, according to IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar. 

India has emerged as a significant player in the global electronics supply chain, evolving from a minor participant to a trusted manufacturing hub. 

The country’s mobile phone manufacturing surged from an estimated Rs 18,900 crore in 2014-15 to about Rs 3,50,000 crore in 2022-23.

Chandrasekhar highlighted that India has secured its position as the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer in terms of volume. 

Additionally, mobile phone exports showed substantial growth, escalating from approximately Rs 1,566 crore in 2014-15 to an estimated Rs 90,000 crore in 2022-23—an impressive surge of over 5,600%.

To foster domestic manufacturing and transition from import substitution to export-oriented production, the government has reduced the basic customs duty (BCD) to 10% (down from 15%) on relevant goods used in mobile phone manufacturing, including mechanics, die-cut parts, and others.

With a vision to achieve $300 billion in domestic electronic manufacturing by 2026 (up from the current $75 billion), the government aims to attract global electronics manufacturers and brands. 

The strategy involves developing sub-assemblies, component ecosystems, and fostering competitiveness and scale in the electronics sector. 

The overarching goal is to position India as a global hub for export-driven manufacturing and electronics system design and manufacturing (ESDM), fostering an environment conducive to global competitiveness.