NEW DELHI: Apple has issued a warning to India, expressing concerns that its local production targets could be jeopardized if the country follows the European Union’s mandate for smartphones, including existing iPhones, to have universal USB-C charging ports. The US tech giant is lobbying for an exemption or delay in the implementation of the rule.
India is considering implementing the EU rule, requiring smartphones to adopt a universal charging port, by June 2025, six months after the EU’s deadline. While manufacturers like Samsung have agreed to India’s plan, Apple, known for its proprietary lightning connector port, is resisting the move.
In a closed-door meeting held on November 28, chaired by India’s IT ministry, Apple requested an exemption for existing iPhone models from the charging port rules. The company warned that adhering to the regulations would make it challenging to meet production targets set under India’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme.
Apple’s regulatory and product compliance executives stated, “If the regulation is implemented on earlier models of mobile phones, they (Apple) will not be able to meet the PLI targets.” The PLI scheme offers fiscal incentives to electronic manufacturers for new investments and incremental phone sales each year.
India to Review Apple’s Request
Apple did not quantify the potential production impact during the meeting, and the IT ministry is set to review the request and make a decision later. The company, along with India’s IT ministry, did not respond to Reuters’ requests for comments.
While Apple suppliers have expanded facilities and increased local production, the push for a universal charging port on older iPhone models could impact the company’s targets, particularly in India’s price-conscious market, where consumers often prefer older, more affordable iPhone models.
The EU’s charging port rules are set to take effect in December 2024, with India aiming for compliance by June 2025. Apple has indicated it can comply with the timeline if existing models are exempted but may need an additional 18 months beyond 2024 if no exemption is granted.
