According to a new report, the Indian government has denied Apple’s request to sell used iPhones in the country. The company was looking to import refurbished iPhones in India which would have then been sold at a discount. This can be chalked up as a setback for Apple in a very lucrative smartphone market where buyers tend to be very price conscious.
The market for second-hand smartphones is quite strong in emerging markets like India. People who are in the market for their first smartphone will consider purchasing a used high-end device if it fits their budget.
Customers would have bought with more confidence if refurbished units with Apple’s seal of approval became available in the market. They would have been available at a significant discount when compared to prices of new handsets and would thus have appeal quite a bit to potential buyers.
Apple’s previous request to import refurbished iPhones in India was denied last year by the environment ministry. This time around it’s the telecommunications ministry that’s reported to have blocked this move.
Local smartphone manufacturers like Micromax and Intex have been strongly opposed to allowing Apple to bring in refurbished iPhones. It would mean more competition for these OEMs who make Android-powered devices so naturally it’s in their interest to keep Apple from selling refurbished iPhones in India.