India has scrapped import duties on several components used in smartphones and electronic devices, a move expected to reduce manufacturing costs and boost domestic electronics production, Reuters reported.The government has removed existing 7.5% and 5% import duties on select components used in electronics manufacturing.The exemption covers:Parts used for wireless charging modules in mobile phonesComponents for display assemblies used in automotive, medical and industrial applicationsLithium-ion cellsMachinery used for lithium-ion battery manufacturingThe duty exemption will remain valid until March 31, 2029.Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi may benefitThe move is expected to support global electronics manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi, which have expanded their manufacturing operations in India.The reduction in import costs could help companies improve production efficiency and strengthen India’s position as a global electronics manufacturing hub.Experts say move will boost local manufacturing“This should boost cost competitiveness, domestic value addition and localisation of high-value smartphone and electronics manufacturing,” Manoj Mishra, Partner at Grant Thornton Bharat, told Reuters and PTI.Mishra said the exemption for lithium-ion cell manufacturing could encourage investment in domestic battery production for:Consumer electronicsSmartphonesElectric mobilityNew customs framework for battery manufacturingThe government has also introduced a technology-neutral exemption for machinery used in lithium-ion battery manufacturing.Rajat Mohan, Managing Partner at AMRG Global, told PTI that the move consolidates separate customs exemptions into a single framework.The change would:Simplify customs proceduresRemove end-use-based distinctionsReduce compliance challenges for manufacturersEncourage investment in integrated battery production facilitiesIndia targets $500b electronics manufacturing sectorThe duty changes are part of India’s broader push to expand its electronics manufacturing ecosystem through initiatives such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.India aims to increase electronics manufacturing to $500 billion by fiscal year 2030.Government data cited by Reuters and PTI shows that smartphone production in India has grown significantly over the past decade.Key figures:Smartphone production increased 28 times in 10 yearsOutput reached ₹5.45 trillion ($57 billion) in the 2024-25 financial yearThe government expects the latest duty exemptions to further support local production, attract investment and increase domestic value addition in the electronics sector.