Apple has admitted grievances in a Foxconn plant in India, in which iPhones are manufactured. Independent auditors have found deficiencies in “distant” sleeping and eating areas, the company said to US media. Together with Foxconn, Apple now wants to ensure that “corrective measures” are taken as soon as possible. The company does not reveal what specific shortcomings in food safety and accommodation have been discovered.
The Apple test was apparently triggered by mass food poisoning among workers in the factory: over 150 employees had to be treated briefly in hospital in December, and another 250 on an outpatient basis. This was followed by protests by workers and their relatives. Among other things, they blocked a motorway for several hours until the police stopped the demonstration.
The plant near Chennai City is reported to be producing 12-series iPhones. Accordingly, the final production of the current iPhone 13 should start there soon. According to its own statements, Apple has put the Foxconn factory on “probation”, as the company told the news agency Reuters indicated. Apple does not provide any further details.
Apple expands iPhone production in India
After violent protests at another Indian plant, Apple already granted contract manufacturer Wistron parole a year ago – and explained at the time that the company would not receive any new orders until the problems were resolved. Foxconn announces to restructure the management of the factory and to resolve the grievances.
Apple has apparently aggressively ramped up the still young production of iPhones in India in the past few months. So far, the devices produced there, often older series, are mainly intended for the local market. With the expansion of India as a production location, Apple could reduce its dependence on China in the longer term.
(lbe)