Apple warns India charger rules to hit local output target

Lobbies to delay EU-like rule on common charger

- ADITYA KALRA & MUNSIF VENGATTIL

APPLE HAS TOLD India its local production targets will be hit if New Delhi follows the European Union and requires existing iPhones to have universal charging ports, a government document shows as the U.S. tech giant lobbies for an exemption or delay.

India wants to implement a European Union rule that will require smartphones to have a universal USB-C charging port, and has been in talks with manufacturers about introducing the requirement in India by June 2025, six months after the deadline in the EU. While all manufacturers including Samsung (005930.KS) have agreed to India's plan, Apple is pushing back.

Apple has for years offered a unique lightning connector port on its iPhones.

The EU, however, estimates a single charger solution would save about $271 million for consumers, and India has said the move will reduce e-waste and help users.