Rumors circulated that the Tata Group was in advanced talks to acquire 51% of Vivo's assets in India, amid rising pressure from the Indian government against Chinese investors. However, the latest reports suggest that the plan has been put on hold due to opposition from Apple.
Meanwhile, Vivo recently celebrated its 10th anniversary in India by announcing the opening of a new facility in northern India.
The Times of India, citing unnamed sources, reported that the Tata Group had planned to acquire a majority stake in Vivo's Indian operations. However, Apple, a significant competitor of Vivo in the smartphone market, raised concerns about the deal, as the Tata Group also manufactures Apple devices in India.
Apple argued that Tata's partnership with Vivo could create a conflict of interest. As a result of these objections, the deal between Tata and Vivo has been put on hold, reports the Times of India.
Money Control, citing unnamed sources, reported that Tata and Vivo were in advanced talks, with Tata eyeing a majority stake in Vivo. According to the report, Vivo's manufacturing plant in Greater Noida has been acquired by Bhagwati Products, which has started recruiting employees and is preparing to commence smartphone production for Vivo. The company has moved its smartphone production to a new 170-acre factory in Greater Noida.
Meanwhile, according to Business Today and Hindu Business Line, Vivo celebrated its 10th anniversary in India. Vivo will start operations at the new factory in Greater Noida by the end of 2024. Once fully operational, this facility will double Vivo's manufacturing capacity in India. The company is committed to tailoring products to Indian consumers by localizing design, camera features, and overall user experience.
Vivo has already invested INR35 billion (US$418 million) in India, creating numerous jobs, and plans to invest an additional INR30 billion in the new facility and expansions. Vivo said it had exported smartphones worth INR40 billion since 2022.
