Apple may set up shop in India: report

Apple Inc, the maker of Macintosh computers, iPhones and iPads, is evaluating the possibility of setting up its own stores in India if the Indian government eases local sourcing conditions, according to an unconfirmed report.

It might be easier for Apple, the world's most valuable company, to set up stores if the government allows its information technology outsourcing operations in India to be included as part of the mandatory 30-per cent local sourcing requirement, says The Times of India citing two senior executives who have business relations with the California-based company in India.

Apple refused to comment on its India plans or whether it would ask the government to provide flexibility with regard to local sourcing norms. "We don't comment on rumours and speculation," said a company spokesman in reply to an email query.

Traditionally, India has not been a high-priority market for Apple, and it takes months before its newly-launched products start selling in India officially through re-sellers.

Chief executive Tim Cook had told analysts during a conference call two months back that the multi-layered distribution in India adds to the cost of bringing products to the Indian market.

But one of the executives mentioned above said the growing popularity of iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products in India was prompting the company to explore the option of increasing its engagement with the country.