Nokia plans mobile manufacturing in India

Nokia today revealed plans to begin manufacturing mobile devices in India. The firm will establish a factory on the subcontinent "to better meet burgeoning demand for mobile devices" in the country.

Growing mobile penetration in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to be a major contributor to the global mobile subscriber base surpassing the two billion mark in 2006, according to Nokia.

"India's position at the heart of a rapidly growing mobile communications region makes it an attractive option for establishing our new manufacturing facility," said Nokia president Pekka Ala-Pietila.

"The factory would be an integral part of our global manufacturing network and help fulfil growing demand as mobile communications become increasingly affordable and available to more people in this diverse region."

Nokia claimed that it will invest an estimated $100m-$150m along with its suppliers over four years once the final investment decision is made.

The firm foresees ramping up the factory gradually, with the workforce ultimately reaching approximately 2,000 employees.