India is moving forward with plans to curb laptop and computer imports as part of its broader strategy to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign-made electronics. A recent report by Reuters indicates that the government’s decision to introduce import restrictions aims to incentivize multinational tech companies, such as Apple, Dell, and Lenovo, to set up local production units.
According to consultancy Mordor Intelligence, India's IT hardware market, including laptops, is valued at nearly $20 billion. Of this, only $5 billion is produced domestically, while most demand is met through imports. Most of these imports come from China, highlighting India's reliance on foreign suppliers for its technology needs.
A similar plan to restrict laptop imports was scrapped last year after facing opposition from companies and lobbying by the U.S. Since then, India has monitored imports under a temporary system expiring this year, and companies are required to seek new import approvals for next year. The government believes it has given the industry ample time to adjust. An official explained that global treaties prevent tariff actions on laptops and tablets, leaving import restrictions as one of the few remaining policy options to limit imports.
