Apple’s plans to sell second-hand iPhones in India has hit a hurdle and this may dent its expansion plans

The IT department has put a spanner in Apple’s expansion plans in India. The iPhone maker made a bid to sell second-hand smartphones in the country, a move which was opposed by the Department of Electronics and Information Technology.

The department said it did not support Apple’s plans to sell second-hand iPhones in India as it would contribute to electronic waste.

The IT department told the environment ministry and Director General of Foreign Trade that they were fine with getting the components and then refurbishing the iPhones locally.

"We are fine with importing the components, refurbishing them locally for exports" because it would generate employment and contribute to forex earnings, a senior official told ET.

Apple wants to make the most of Indian smartphone market and sees the country as a bright spot.

Meanwhile, the environment ministry and the Director General of Foreign Trade are, reportedly, scrutinising Apple's application to import and sell pre-owned certified iPhones in India.

Also, local manufacturers are against Apple's plan.

As per reports, in US, refurbished iPhones are sold at discounts of up to 50% and if the same policy is adopted in India, it would affect the local smartphone makers immensely.