India’s Smartphone Exports Surge; Overtakes Traditional Exports

India’s smartphone exports have experienced an unprecedented surge, surpassing traditional export staples like petroleum products and diamonds.

Over the past three years, smartphone exports to key markets, including the United States and Japan, have surged by nearly fivefold and fourfold, respectively, according to government data.

India’s smartphone exports reached a remarkable $24.14 billion in 2024-25, marking a 55% increase from the $15.57 billion in 2023-24 and $10.96 billion in 2022-23.

This surge has propelled smartphones to become one of India’s top export commodities, reflecting the sector’s rapid growth and global competitiveness.

Also Read: Gopichand Hinduja Tops UK Rich List For Fourth Consecutive Year

The top five countries where India recorded the highest growth in smartphone exports over the past fiscal year include the United States, the Netherlands, Italy, Japan, and the Czech Republic.

Notably, exports to the United States have skyrocketed, rising from $2.16 billion in 2022-23 to $5.57 billion in 2023-24 and reaching $10.6 billion in 2024-25.

A Surge In Exports To Japan

India has also witnessed a dramatic increase in smartphone exports to Japan.

Shipments to the country surged from $120 million in 2022-23 to $520 million in FY25, underscoring the growing demand for Indian-made smartphones in global markets.

A government official noted, “This rapid ascent has propelled smartphones to become one of India’s top exported goods, surpassing petroleum products and diamonds for the first time.”

Government Initiatives Driving Growth

Government initiatives, particularly the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, have largely driven the significant growth in smartphone exports.

This scheme has spurred investment, boosted local manufacturing, and integrated India further into global value chains.

These efforts further played a crucial role in transforming India into a major global manufacturing and export hub.

Apple And Samsung Lead The Charge

Apple and Samsung are the dominant players in India’s smartphone export landscape, accounting for nearly 94% of the total exports in 2024.

The two tech giants have continued to expand their local manufacturing operations, contributing to a 6% year-on-year growth in the export of Made-in-India smartphones, as reported by market research firm Counterpoint in their ‘Make in India’ Service report.

Bright Future Ahead

Looking ahead, smartphone manufacturing in India is projected to grow by double digits in 2025, with an increasing focus on local value addition.

As global demand for Indian-made smartphones rises, the sector is poised for further expansion, cementing India’s position as a key player in the global smartphone market.

In conclusion, India’s smartphone export sector has seen explosive growth, driven by strong government support and the increasing presence of international brands.

With a bright future on the horizon, the country is well on its way to becoming a global leader in smartphone manufacturing and exports.