Global Electronics Production: Where It Happens, Who Leads, and What It Means for India

When you think of global electronics production, the end-to-end process of designing, assembling, and shipping electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and home gadgets. Also known as electronics manufacturing, it’s the invisible engine behind every device you own. It’s not just about factories—it’s about supply chains, skilled workers, government policies, and who controls the chips inside your phone. For years, China dominated this space, making over 70% of the world’s electronics. But that’s changing. Countries like Vietnam, India, and Mexico are stepping in, and the shift isn’t just about cost—it’s about resilience, trade rules, and local demand.

One big reason for the change? The U.S. and EU are pushing for less reliance on single countries. That’s why companies like Apple, Dell, and Samsung are moving parts of their production to India. The Indian government is helping with cash incentives under schemes like MOM method, a government program that rewards manufacturers for increasing output. Factories in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Uttar Pradesh are now making everything from circuit boards to smartphones. And it’s not just big brands—small manufacturers are joining too, building components for global brands with lower startup costs than ever before.

But it’s not just about assembly. The real game-changer is semiconductor manufacturing, the process of making the tiny chips that power all electronics. India doesn’t make chips yet at scale, but it’s investing heavily to change that. Meanwhile, countries like Taiwan and South Korea still lead in chip production, while the U.S. and China race to build their own. For India, mastering chip-making is the next step—because right now, it still imports most of them. Until then, it’s building the rest of the product around those chips: batteries, cases, displays, and software.

What does this mean for you? If you’re looking to start a small electronics business, India is one of the few places where you can still get in early. The cost to set up a factory is lower than in the U.S. or Europe, and the workforce is growing faster than in most countries. You’ll find companies making LED lights, smart home gadgets, and even medical devices—all with global quality standards. The key? Focus on what’s needed now: energy-efficient devices, repairable products, and locally supported tech. The world doesn’t just want cheap electronics anymore—it wants reliable ones made closer to home.

Below, you’ll find real examples of how manufacturers in India are winning in this space—whether they’re making phone parts, exporting to Africa, or using government schemes to scale up. You’ll also see how global shifts are affecting everything from steel supply chains to food processing factories that now need better electronics for automation. This isn’t just about gadgets. It’s about who controls the future of how things are made—and India is no longer just watching.