Govt to support Apple's bid to 'Make in India'

Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu said the Centre will support Apple to set up a manufacturing unit in the country, and is currently awaiting a formal proposal from them.

"Let us get a good proposal from them. We will be very happy to receive Apple, one of the top brands in the world. We are willing to find out if there is any difficulty they may face. We will be more than happy to resolve that difficulty. So we will await a formal proposal," Prabhu said, adding that the Centre is willing to call all state chief ministers who are willing to give them the best deal.

The iPhone and Mac manufacturer has asked for certain concessions for setting up a manufacturing unit in India.

The government had sought details about investment and job creation from the company to facilitate setting up of its proposed facility.

Apple India had sought concessions, including duty exemption on manufacturing and repair units, components, capital equipment and consumables for smartphone manufacturing and service/repair for a period of 15 years.

The company also wants relaxation in the mandated 30% local sourcing of components besides reduction in customs duties on CKD and SKD units of devices that are to be assembled in the country.