According to WSJ, citing two senior government officials, Apple has discussed with the Indian government the ability to manufacture its products in the country as it seeks to increase sales and presence there.
In a letter to the government the company outlined its plans and financial measures it needs to achieve them, officials said. After that, representatives of the Ministry of Commerce held a meeting to discuss the matter.
A spokesman for Apple has not responded on the WSJ information.
The implementation of the process of production will enable Apple to open its own stores in India, which will help promote its brand in the country with the fastest growing smartphone market, where its share at the moment is less than 5%.
Indian smartphone market is expected to surpass the US market, and will be the second largest in the world after China, according to research firm IDC. Over the years, sales in China have fueled the growth of Apple, but now it slows down the pace.
AAPL shares rose in premarket trading to $ 116.80 (+ 0.14%).