Tata factory making iPhone backplates in India won't be shut down due to pollution

Tata iPhone Backplate Factory in India Cleared of Pollution Concerns, Avoids Shutdown

A significant manufacturing facility in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, responsible for producing crucial iPhone backplates for Apple, has successfully navigated environmental scrutiny. The plant, owned by Indian conglomerate Tata, faced potential closure following pollution complaints from local farmers. Concerns over wastewater contamination affecting agricultural land and wells had prompted an investigation by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) since December 2025, with an initial warning of a possible shutdown.

This development is particularly noteworthy given Apple's strategic push to diversify its global supply chain and reduce dependence on China. India has emerged as a key manufacturing hub for iPhones, with a substantial portion – approximately a quarter of all iPhones sold worldwide – now assembled in the country. The Tata facility plays a vital role within this expanding ecosystem of parts suppliers.

Tata has announced that it has fully addressed the contamination issues raised. Following the TNPCB's investigation, which began after the company was reportedly notified on December 23rd of last year, Tata commissioned an independent analysis of its wastewater samples. The results of this analysis, Tata states, demonstrate full compliance with all environmental regulations, with all tested parameters falling within the established limits. Consequently, the factory is no longer under investigation by the TNPCB.

Source