"India Outpaces China in Tech, Appliances: Key Reasons"

India Set to Challenge China in Smart Appliance Manufacturing, Driven by New BIS Regulations

Mumbai: After establishing itself as a major hub for iPhone manufacturing, India is now setting its sights on overtaking China in the production of electronic household items, particularly Smart TVs and microwave ovens. The shift is also extending to a range of specialised electronic appliances, including **robot vacuum cleaners, coffee makers, built-in refrigerators, and air fryers—items that were previously almost entirely imported from China.

BIS Rules Drive Shift Toward Local Manufacturing

This manufacturing pivot is largely being driven by the Indian government’s expansion of the Quality Control Order (QCO) under the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). According to new rules, factories producing electronic items in India must obtain BIS certification. This requirement has made it more difficult for uncertified foreign-made goods—especially those from China—to enter the Indian market, boosting domestic production in the process.

“The BIS regulations have brought a big change. Premium brands are now planning to manufacture small appliances in India, irrespective of market size,” said Atul Lala, Managing Director of Dixon Technologies.

Key Developments and Industry Moves

Dixon Technologies has partnered with Eureka Forbes to manufacture robot vacuum cleaners locally.

Liebherr, a German-Swiss multinational, has set up a plant in Aurangabad to manufacture built-in refrigerators, with production commencing in April 2025.

PG Electroplast, a major contract manufacturer, had earlier halted production of small appliances citing low domestic demand. But now, renewed brand interest and BIS QCO mandates have encouraged the company to restart operations.

Domestic Market No Longer a Limiting Factor

Until recently, many electronics brands considered India's domestic market too small to justify local manufacturing of niche products. However, the BIS certification requirement has leveled the playing field, compelling companies to rethink strategy.

>“The QCO has created a major barrier for foreign manufacturers lacking BIS certification,” industry insiders noted. “This has led to a surge in local inquiries and boosted in-country production.”

A Strategic Shift with Global Implications

India’s policy direction is not only aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese imports but also at establishing the country as a global electronics manufacturing hub. The increased localisation of high-tech consumer appliances signals a strategic realignment of the electronics sector.

With the success in smartphone assembly already underway, India is now poised to become a serious player in the global consumer electronics space, with support from both domestic policy and foreign brand partnerships.