On Wednesday, Apple representatives held talks with Indian authorities about the start of production of iPhone in India. This will allow it to open in the country retail stores, as well as get rid of import duties, making the smartphone more competitive.
The Minister of trade of India confirmed that the meeting with Apple took place, however, the Agency refused to give a detailed review to reveal the details of the negotiations.
In Cupertino said that they appreciated the constructive dialogue with the Indian authorities. That Apple plans to build factory on release of iPhone in India, became known in the end of last year. It is expected that the plant will be built in conjunction with the company Wistron in Bangalore. The company can start work in April, and at the end of 2017 should become the main link in the Indian supply chain of the iPhone.
According to Counterpoint, more than 86 million smartphones sold in India last year, was produced on its territory. In the last quarter about 75% of smartphones were of local production. Approximately 70% of the sold smartphones supported LTE.
In the fourth quarter, 46% of the sold in India are smartphones were made by Chinese companies, an increase of 14% in annual terms. Apple took 10th place at the end of last quarter, having only 2.5 million smartphones. But among the premium units (priced from $ 450), its share reached 62%.
In General, the market leader remains Samsung, which has 25% market share at year-end. In the second place Micromax with a share of 11%, and closes the three leaders Lenovo (including Moto) with a share of 9%.
