Apple has initiated talks with Bharat Forge, a Kalyani Group company, to potentially include them as a vendor in India, according to informed sources. The collaboration would involve Bharat Forge manufacturing various components and mechanics for the American technology company.
This development follows existing partnerships between Apple and other Indian enterprises, including the Tata Group, Motherson Group and Aequs.
“Apple is looking to work with some of the biggest Indian companies and talks have commenced with Bharat Forge, located in Pune, Maharashtra,” one of the persons told ET.
The technology giant has been actively expanding its Indian supplier network over the past two years to enhance local value addition, whilst reducing its manufacturing dependence on China.
Apple India Plans
Apple’s Indian manufacturing presence includes three iPhone assembly facilities, with Foxconn operating the largest in Tamil Nadu. Two additional facilities are managed by Tata Group units in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Bharat Forge, employing approximately 5,000 people, is a prominent Indian manufacturing enterprise. Under the leadership of 76-year-old Baba Kalyani, the company operates across various sectors including forging, automotives, energy, construction, mining, railway, marine, aerospace and defence.
International suppliers from China, Japan, Taiwan and other countries have established manufacturing units in India.
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Current vendors include Sunwoda for battery packs, Foxlink for cables, and Aequs for enclosures. Salcomp continues to expand its operations beyond coils, power packs and magnetics.
Amperex Technology Ltd (ATL), a major Apple supplier, is preparing to commence battery cell production at its 180-acre facility in Manesar, Haryana.
In August, the financial daily reported about Motherson Group’s plans to join Apple’s supply chain through collaboration with BIEL Crystal Manufactory from Hong Kong, pending government approval.
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An industry specialist noted Apple’s focus on iPhone enclosures, suggesting additional local suppliers would join within the next year, supplementing the Tata unit in Hosur, Tamil Nadu.
Apple has achieved 20% local value addition across various models through its expanded supplier network in India. This marks significant progress from the 5-8% local value addition when manufacturing began under the PLI scheme in 2020.
In 2024, the company manufactured iPhones worth $17.5 billion and achieved exports of $12.8 billion.