The WSJ is reporting that Apple is quietly looking to expand to India, the world's second most populous nation.
Currently, Apple sells the iPhone and iPad through partnerships with local distributors Redington and Ingram Micro, although they have no Apple Store retail presence in the nation.
India has made it tough for high-end brands to setup retail stores in the nation, with local companies controlling distribution and most of the vertical integration.
There is a rule that requires mandatory 30 percent local-sourcing requirement for foreign retailers, but it appears Apple is in discussions with the Indian government to have that legislation (and some others) relaxed.
If completed, Apple will then look to open multiple stores in 2013.
India has made it tough for high-end brands to setup retail stores in the nation, with local companies controlling distribution and most of the vertical integration.
There is a rule that requires mandatory 30 percent local-sourcing requirement for foreign retailers, but it appears Apple is in discussions with the Indian government to have that legislation (and some others) relaxed.
If completed, Apple will then look to open multiple stores in 2013.
