So, here’s the scoop: India is changing the game by putting some new rules on the block for tech imports like laptops, tablets, Consoles, and other cool gadgets. Why? Well, they want to amp up local production and make sure they’re getting gadgets they can trust. But what does all of this mean for the big players like Apple, Samsung, and HP? And how will it affect consumers?
According to The Economic Times, these new rules kick in on October 1, 2023, and they’re all about certain products that India now calls “restricted” when they come from abroad. This list includes laptops, tablets, smartwatches, e-readers, cameras, gaming consoles, and anything else that can connect wirelessly or store data. The inside scoop? India wants to give a boost to its own production of these gadgets, cut back on the imports, and make sure they’re totally safe to use.
They’ve already got schemes like the “Production Linked Incentive” (PLI), where they give cash rewards to companies that meet production and export goals. This has brought in big names like Apple, Samsung, Foxconn, Wistron, and Pegatron, all wanting a piece of the action in India.
And here’s the kicker: India isn’t exactly a superhero when it comes to making gadgets from scratch like it does with smartphones. They’re kind of missing the sidekicks—component suppliers, skilled workers, the right setup, and high-tech smarts to develop their own tech. Most of mid-sized players are focused on putting together parts from other places instead of inventing their own gadgets. That means they’re not really top dogs when it comes to quality, new ideas, or costs.
Plus, there’s some fierce competition from other Asian countries that have already made a name for themselves in the tech world. IDC says China grabbed 28% of the laptop market in 2022, followed by Taiwan with 21%, Vietnam with 15%, and Thailand with 9%. India? only had 2%. And when it comes to tablets, China was king again with 37%, followed by Taiwan, Vietnam, and South Korea. India? A mere 1%.
So, what’s the game plan? India needs to step up its game and make the field friendly for making gadgets there. That might mean some tax breaks, cash rewards, building up tech skills, and giving a nudge to innovation. Only then can India make its mark as a top-tier tech hub and cut back on imports.