Nokia handset maker HMD moves production to India from China

Finnish company, HMD Global, known for producing Nokia-branded feature phones, is relocating a significant portion of its manufacturing operations from China as part of its strategy to make India its central manufacturing hub. The company is also in talks with electronic component suppliers worldwide to encourage them to set up factories in India, further supporting its export ambitions.

HMD is positioning itself to benefit from the ongoing trade war between the US and China, particularly if the new US administration under President Donald Trump imposes stricter tariffs on China. The company plans to capitalise on the changing geopolitical dynamics by shifting operations to India.

Ravi Kunwar, CEO and V-P for India and Asia Pacific at HMD, is quoted saying that the company is gradually shifting its supply chain, sourcing, and logistics infrastructure to India.A bulk of its operations previously in China are now being moved to India, and this helps to strengthen the company's export strategy.  Kunwar further added that the proportion of products being exported from China is decreasing, while those shipped from India are increasing.

Kunwar further said that HMD has already moved significant manufacturing components, including critical supply chain teams, from China to India.

HMD currently exports Nokia feature phones and smartphones to West Asia and Africa from India. With the evolving geopolitical situation and increased focus on supply chain security, the company plans to expand exports to the US and Europe.