Qualcomm and MediaTek Ready to Power India’s Chip Manufacturing Surge by 2026

India’s semiconductor ambitions have received a major boost as global chipmakers Qualcomm and MediaTek signal strong readiness to participate in local chip manufacturing by 2026. This move is set to reshape the electronics and smartphone landscape, making India a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain.

India’s Semiconductor Push Attracts Global Giants

Qualcomm and MediaTek—two of the world’s largest fabless semiconductor companies—have publicly affirmed their willingness to manufacture chips in India, provided that the country’s fabrication and advanced packaging capacities mature as planned. MediaTek India’s Managing Director, Anku Jain, emphasized the business sense behind local chip production, stating:

“If consumption is in India and manufacturing is in India, that’s good for us. It makes business sense, certainly it’s a good thing to do. Things can be done to Make in India.”

The announcements come as India accelerates its semiconductor mission, supported by a $10 billion government incentive package designed to attract leading chipmakers and establish a robust domestic supply chain. Currently, nearly all chips used in India are imported, despite the country ranking among the world’s largest consumers of electronic goods. The government’s push is expected to change this paradigm, with around ten major semiconductor projects—including fabrication (fab) plants and chip testing facilities—now under development.

Qualcomm is reportedly in talks with Indian partners, including the Tata Group, to leverage new packaging capacity and is open to collaborating with upcoming Indian fabs. MediaTek, meanwhile, has a strong R&D presence in India and leads in chip supply to Indian smartphone makers. Both companies see significant business logic in localizing production, citing the potential for cost savings, shorter supply chains, and greater resilience against global disruptions. 

Industry Timelines and Market Impact

While neither Qualcomm nor MediaTek has committed to a specific production launch date, industry analysts and company officials point to 2026 as the likely year for the first major moves toward India-based chip manufacturing. This timeline aligns with the expected completion of Tata Group’s Dholera fab and several other major semiconductor facilities. 

India’s semiconductor market stood at

 and is projected to reach $45–50 billion by 2025, with further growth to $100–110 billion by 2030. Local chip production is expected to benefit smartphone, automotive, and electronics manufacturers by reducing costs and boosting supply chain resilience. 

Public and Industry Reaction

Indian business media and industry analysts have largely welcomed these announcements as a significant vote of confidence in India’s semiconductor ambitions. Manufacturers are optimistic that local sourcing will make electronics more affordable and competitive. However, there is a note of caution: India has a history of delayed semiconductor projects, and experts stress the need for consistent policy support and sustained ecosystem development to ensure success.

“The overall development of the ecosystem is quite promising. It is really picking up in a very promising way.” — Anku Jain, MediaTek India MD

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Sources

• The Economic Times: MediaTek expresses readiness to make chips in India
• Times of India: Big boost to India’s semiconductor dreams
• Assam Tribune: MediaTek keen to manufacture chips in India
• India Briefing: Setting up a semiconductor fabrication plant in India
• Why is Gujarat Attracting Maximum Semiconductor Investments in India: Ashwini Vaishnaw Explains
• India’s Manufacturing Sector Surges to Five-Year High on GST Reforms and Robust Demand