Following the global launch of the much-anticipated iPhone 17 on September 9, a groundbreaking strategic decision has come into focus: Apple will produce all its U.S.-bound models in India.
This move signifies a major milestone for the “Make in India” initiative and a pivotal moment in the ongoing realignment of global tech supply chains.
In a new feature by the global tech publication Rest of World, Ankur Bisen, Senior Partner & Head – Consumer, Food & Retail at The Knowledge Company, provides his expert analysis on the profound implications of this shift.
More Than a Product: A “Geopolitical Tool”
Ankur Bisen frames the launch not as a simple commercial milestone, but as the moment the iPhone cemented its status as a powerful “geopolitical tool.”
He explains that this transformation is a direct consequence of the ongoing “U.S.-China tensions” and strategic pressures on Apple to diversify its manufacturing footprint.
The decision to produce all U.S.-bound models in India is a deliberate and visible move to build a resilient supply chain outside of China.
This successful launch from India, according to Ankur, provides Apple with a significant “sense of achievement and validation.” It demonstrates that the company’s multi-year India strategy is now robust enough to “withstand political pressure” from established manufacturing hubs.
While tactics like leveraging the workforce have been used to exert pressure, he suggests that fundamental economics will ultimately guide decisions, as all parties understand the critical versus non-critical parts of the supply chain.
However, in a nuanced take on future challenges, Ankur suggests looking beyond the immediate China dynamic.
He points out that the most significant unknown may now be closer to Apple’s home, stating that “the real disruption risk lies with Trump, whose unpredictability… could still unsettle Apple’s plans.”
This highlights that the stability of Apple’s global strategy is now as dependent on Washington’s policy as it is on Beijing’s actions.
Unpacking the Strategic Implications
Ankur’s analysis brings several critical points to the forefront:
Validation of Apple’s India Strategy: The ability to launch the iPhone 17 from India for a key market like the U.S. proves that the company’s multi-year effort to build a resilient, non-Chinese hub for manufacturing is succeeding.
The Power of Economics: Despite geopolitical maneuvers from all sides, fundamental economic logic—understanding which parts of the supply chain are critical versus fungible—will continue to guide corporate strategy.
A New Risk on the Horizon: In a nuanced take, Ankur points out that future disruption may not only come from U.S.-China tensions but also from potential unpredictability in U.S. domestic policy, which could impact global manufacturing plans.
This landmark iphone 17 make in India decision, as analyzed by experts, confirms that the world’s most iconic tech product is now deeply intertwined with global politics and the strategic rise of new manufacturing powerhouses.
Supporting Strategic Retail Transformation
Ankur Bisen’s contribution to this discussion exemplifies The Knowledge Company’s role as a trusted advisor to businesses navigating complex global transitions.
Whether it’s category expansion, private label strategy, or Q-commerce profitability, our insights are built on decades of experience and real-world data.
We work closely with clients to evaluate emerging categories through a multi-lens approach—consumer behaviour, infrastructure, margin potential, and operational scalability.
As the retail ecosystem evolves rapidly, our role is to balance ambition with execution reality.
This feature in Rest of World aligns with TKC’s ongoing work in:
Global supply chain diversification and resilience strategy
Geopolitical risk analysis for high-tech manufacturing
Go-to-market strategy for consumer electronics
Omnichannel and direct-to-consumer (D2C) strategy advisory
At TKC, we believe the future of global commerce will be built on precision, adaptability, and a deep understanding of geopolitical and economic undercurrents.
Need help assessing a new market entry or supply chain model?
Reach out to TKC for tailored, forward-looking consulting across consumer goods, high-tech manufacturing, and broader retail transformation.
