India’s smartphone exports are estimated to have reached a record USD 30 billion for the period January–December 2025, driven largely by the government’s Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme aimed at boosting local manufacturing and global competitiveness. The figure marks a significant jump from around USD 20.45 billion logged in the previous 12-month period.
Key Highlights
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Strong year-on-year growth: The USD 30 billion export tally for 2025 represents nearly 38 % of total smartphone exports over the last five years, showing the scale of recent gains.
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PLI scheme impact: The smartphone PLI, introduced in 2020, has been central to this export surge by incentivising local production and integrating Indian plants into global supply chains.
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Tech leadership: High-value exports, particularly of premium models like Apple’s iPhone, accounted for a large share of shipments, underscoring India’s evolving role in tech manufacturing.
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Electronics export momentum: Broader electronics exports—of which mobiles are a key component—surpassed ₹4 trillion in 2025, with expectations of further growth as semiconductor facilities become operational.
Sector Outlook
Industry bodies project that mobile phone production in India could reach USD 75 billion by the end of FY26, with exports remaining a strong driver of growth. Expansion of domestic value chains and increased participation in global markets could further elevate India’s position as a major electronics exporter.
Challenges Ahead
Despite strong overall performance, broader trade dynamics such as rising deficits with some partners highlight ongoing challenges in India’s export mix. Economic policymakers continue to monitor global headwinds while promoting manufacturing competitiveness.
