Smartphone exports from India have skyrocketed to a historic $30 billion in 2025, a direct testament to the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme’s game-changing role. This surge cements India’s status as an indispensable node in the worldwide tech supply chain.
Initiated to counter China’s dominance, PLI has delivered spectacular returns. Incentives tied to production thresholds have spurred $20 billion in capex, creating state-of-the-art facilities across 10 states. Giants like Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi have ramped up alongside Apple, exporting everything from budget 5G phones to flagships.
The data is riveting: exports doubled in two years, with 70% value growth from high-end devices. Key drivers include eased FDI norms, GST rationalization, and PLI’s emphasis on exports over 15% of output. Markets like Latin America and Africa are emerging hotspots.
Socio-economic wins are equally impressive—over 1 million jobs, women-led factories, and skilling programs yielding a tech-savvy workforce. The scheme has ignited a virtuous cycle, with local firms now exporting components globally.
Future-proofing is underway with PLI for IT hardware and EVs. While global slowdowns pose risks, India’s diversified base and policy agility provide buffers. This milestone heralds an era where ‘Made in India’ equals world-class quality, driving the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat forward.