India's pollution regulator has accused Tata Electronics, a key supplier for Apple's iPhones, of contaminating groundwater near its Hosur factory. The regulator found wastewater discharge polluted farmland wells and warned of a potential shutdown unless Tata provides a satisfactory explanation.
The allegations could disrupt Apple's supply chain diversification efforts in India and highlight ongoing environmental compliance challenges for manufacturers in the region.
An Indian pollution regulator has accused Tata Electronics, a significant supplier for Apple's iPhone production in India, of contaminating groundwater with wastewater from its factory in Hosur, Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board issued a warning notice on May 25, alleging that wastewater discharged into a rainwater harvesting pond overflowed and polluted adjacent agricultural lands and open wells.
This notice follows multiple complaints from local farmers and five state inspections conducted between December 2025 and May 2026. The regulator stated that Tata had not taken corrective actions following previous instructions. The board has asked Tata to explain why its power supply should not be cut and the unit closed due to alleged breaches of environmental rules.
Tata Electronics, a key player in Apple's strategy to diversify its manufacturing base away from China, has denied the allegations. The company stated it commissioned an independent analysis through an accredited laboratory, which determined it was in full compliance with all regulatory norms. Tata also affirmed its commitment to responsible business practices and environmental protection, and that it had responded to the authorities.
This incident adds to a series of challenges faced by Apple's supply chain in India. Previous issues include a fire at the same Tata plant in September 2024, a fire at a former supplier Pegatron's plant in September 2023, and a Reuters investigation into alleged discriminatory hiring practices by Foxconn in 2024. India is projected to significantly increase its share of global iPhone production by 2026.