Xiaomi India considers local tablet manufacturing amid IT hardware import restrictions

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Xiaomi India considers local tablet manufacturing amid IT hardware import restrictions

Xiaomi India considers local tablet manufacturing amid IT hardware import restrictions

Industry News
Jan 08,24

This initiative aligns with India's Make in India program, aiming to bolster investment and entrepreneurship in the fifth-largest global economy.

Xiaomi India considers local tablet manufacturing amid IT hardware import restrictions

The Indian branch of Xiaomi, the Chinese smartphone manufacturer, has expressed its consideration for local production of tablets in response to New Delhi's efforts to restrict imports of IT hardware. This initiative aligns with India's Make in India program, aiming to bolster investment and entrepreneurship in the fifth-largest global economy.

Xiaomi India President, Muralikrishnan B., stated during a media briefing on Wednesday, "The government has granted a one-year extension, and we are mindful of that target. We are collaborating with our partners to ensure a timely commencement of local manufacturing."

As of November 1, 2023, India has implemented an import management system allowing unrestricted import of IT hardware products for a year, covering items such as laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers, servers, and ultra-small form factor devices. However, starting November 1, 2024, imports will face gradual restrictions, with quantities determined based on factors like the previous year's imports, local production, and exports from India.

The one-year period serves as a transition to facilitate companies without existing local manufacturing capacities. Xiaomi already produces all its smartphones in India and has expanded its export footprint to include the UAE, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.

Muralikrishnan emphasised the brand's commitment to delivering affordable 5G smartphones, particularly in the sub-Rs 10,000 price range. Xiaomi's strategic focus for the next three years encompasses 5G technology, AIoT devices, and a connected ecosystem integrated with HyperOS, the brand's proprietary operating system spanning all connected devices.

Regarding Xiaomi's recent entry into the electric vehicle segment in China, Muralikrishnan clarified that the company has no immediate plans to introduce its electric car to the Indian market. Despite aiming to be among the top five global carmakers, Xiaomi's current focus remains on its core strategies in the technology and smartphone sectors.

Source: Mint