India's iPhone Boom Is This Trump's American Dream... Come True (Elsewhere)?

Trump Wanted iPhones Made in America. India is Showing How It's Done.

Former President Trump often voiced his desire to see iPhones manufactured in the United States. While that vision hasn't materialized stateside, a fascinating parallel story is unfolding in India, offering valuable lessons in attracting and fostering high-tech manufacturing.

The arrival and expansion of Foxconn, a primary Apple supplier, in India is proving to be transformative for the region. The effects are far-reaching, impacting everything from job creation to land values and the very fabric of the local economy. Here's a closer look at how India is becoming an iPhone manufacturing hub:

• A Boon for Job Seekers: The presence of Foxconn and its associated industries is creating a surge in employment opportunities, providing livelihoods for countless individuals.
• Landowner Benefits: The demand for land to support manufacturing facilities and related infrastructure is driving up property values, benefiting landowners in the region.
• A Budding Supply Chain Ecosystem: Just like the intricate network of suppliers that supports Apple's manufacturing in China, a similar ecosystem is taking root in India's heartland. Businesses are emerging and expanding to provide Foxconn with the goods and services it needs.

This isn't just about one company. A diverse mix of businesses – Indian, Taiwanese, South Korean, and American – are either setting up shop or expanding their operations to support Foxconn and the broader electronics manufacturing sector. Some are completely new entrants to the Indian market, attracted by the opportunity to be part of this growing ecosystem.

Bengaluru, a city of eight million people with a history in aerospace, is experiencing a resurgence in manufacturing. While the city previously shifted its focus to call centers and high-tech sectors like microchip design, the return to the factory floor, as seen in Devanahalli, represents a significant shift and embodies the kind of industrial revitalization Mr. Trump envisioned for America.

The positive changes on the ground are palpable:

• Rising Wages: Wages in the area surrounding the Foxconn plant are reportedly increasing by 10 to 15 percent, reflecting the growing demand for skilled labor.
• Quiet Deals: Businesses are actively pursuing opportunities to supply Foxconn and Apple's other contractors, contributing to the expansion of the supply chain.

The Indian example provides valuable insights into what it takes to attract and nurture advanced manufacturing industries. It highlights the importance of a supportive ecosystem, skilled workforce, and strategic investment. While the specific circumstances may differ, the lessons learned from India's experience can inform efforts to revitalize manufacturing in other countries.

Ultimately, the story unfolding in India is one of economic transformation, driven by the global demand for iPhones and the strategic decisions of companies like Foxconn. It demonstrates the potential for manufacturing to create jobs, boost local economies, and foster technological innovation. It's a compelling case study in how strategic investment and a supportive environment can unlock significant economic opportunities.

Tags: Foxconn, India manufacturing, iPhone production, Supply chain, Job growth, Bengaluru, Devanahalli, Electronics industry, Foreign investment, Indian economy, Manufacturing revival, Global supply chains

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/30/business/apple-foxconn-india.html