Contract manufacturer Foxconn has started production of the iPhone 11 in India, according to a report from The Economic Times, via MacRumors that says assembly is now underway at the supplier’s plant near Chennai.
The shift in location comes amid reports that Apple is working to diversify its supply chain in an effort to reduce its reliance on Chinese manufacturing, with Foxconn reportedly preparing a new $1 billion investment in its Indian manufacturing infrastructure.
Foxconn already produces the iPhone XR in India for Apple.
iPhone 11 models sold in India are all currently made in China, so by bringing production into the country, Apple is able to “make the most of the government’s Made in India initiative” and could save 22 percent on import duties.
Apple announced earlier this year that it will open its first Apple Store in India during 2021, with an official online store launching later this year.
