New Delhi: Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn is preparing to launch its new manufacturing facility in Bengaluru, with commercial iPhone shipments likely to commence as early as June, Karnataka’s Minister for Commerce and Industries, MB Patil, announced on Saturday.

India is now witnessing a new phase of the "Make in India" initiative at a global scale, amid reports that Apple may shift its entire US-bound iPhone assembly to India by next year.

According to Patil, “Foxconn’s unit at Devanahalli ITIR is nearly ready for launch, with commercial iPhone shipments expected to begin as early as June”.

In a post on X social media platform, he said that this is not just a manufacturing milestone.

“It marks a strategic shift. With rising geopolitical and tariff pressures, India is fast becoming Apple’s preferred production hub. This development strengthens Karnataka’s position in global manufacturing and opens the door to greater foreign investment — without compromising stakeholder interests,” said the state minister.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has already confirmed that a majority of iPhones sold in the US during the June quarter will be manufactured in India.

“As a Kannadiga, this is a proud moment. From Mysuru to Cupertino, Karnataka is making global headlines,” said Patil.

According to Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, India is now achieving "Make in India" at a global scale.

Apple’s contract manufacturing partners in India have already been expanding their operations. Foxconn’s upcoming facility in Bengaluru is expected to produce up to 20 million iPhones annually once it reaches full capacity.

In the past year, iPhones worth $22 billion were assembled in the country, with Foxconn’s Tamil Nadu unit contributing nearly half of Apple’s exports.

Exports from Foxconn's factory have jumped more than 40 per cent compared to the same period last year.

Today, India accounts for nearly 20 per cent of Apple's total iPhone production worldwide, showing how important the country has become for the brand's global plans.

The Indian market is also witnessing strong growth for Apple. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, more than three million iPhones were shipped from India -- a new record.

IANS