India emerges as the third largest mobile exporter globally at Rs. 1,77,141 crore (US$ 20.5 billion): Research

In under ten years, India has experienced a significant shift from being reliant on mobile phone imports to becoming the third-largest exporter globally. Mobile phone exports reached Rs. According to a recent study by the Centre for Development Studies (CDS), 1,77,141 crore (US$ 20.5 billion) in CY24 is anticipated, fueled by significant policy interventions and enhanced integration into global value chains (GVCs). The change started in approximately 2017 and picked up speed with the introduction of the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) program in 2020, promoting extensive electronics production. Exports have now surpassed domestic consumption, a unique accomplishment among developing nations. In 2024-25, mobile exports were recorded at Rs. 2,08,248 crore (US$ 24.1 billion), an increase from merely Rs. 1,728 crore (US$ 200 million) in 2017-18, an astonishing increase of more than 11,950%. The sector has reliably shown a favorable net export trend since 2018-19, suggesting enduring structural enhancements. The report underscores a notable increase in Domestic Value Addition (DVA), which hit 23% of production value in 2022-23, surpassing Rs. 86,410 crores (US$ 10 billion). Direct DVA increased by 283% to Rs. 39,749 crore (US$ 4.6 billion) from 2019-20 to 2022-23, while indirect DVA, via component manufacturers and service providers, increased more than six times to Rs. 28,515 crore (US$ 3.3 billion). Employment in the sector has risen to over 1.7 million jobs, with jobs tied to exports increasing by more than 33 times. Salaries in jobs focused on exports have also risen, signifying comprehensive growth. The research advises maintaining an export-focused industrial policy, enhancing logistics, tackling tariff inefficiencies, and prioritizing scale prior to extensive localization.