India rejects Apple bid to sell used iPhones in market

India has rejected an application by tech giant Apple to sell refurbished iPhones in the country. The company was planning to import pre-owned iPhones that it is buying back from users in the US to allow them to upgrade, and then sell them to price-conscious Indian customers.

According to a Bloomberg report, Apple's application was turned down following opposition from rival Android smartphone companies .The opposition warned that accepting Apple's proposal would cause a flood of used electronics in the market, interfering with their own sales, as well as defeating the purpose of the entire ''Make in India'' movement (See: Plan to sell used iPhones in India meets stiff resistance). In addition, The Times of India reports that electronic waste may also be a factor behind the decision. The large-scale sale of refurbished iPhones would likely result in a rise in e-waste, as the phones would be nearing the end of their lifetime at the time of import.

The decision is definitely a setback to Apple, which has been looking to crack into new markets as its sales numbers dip. India is a tough market for the tech giant, as most Indian consumers are unable to pay the high prices for iPhones, which cost even more in the Indian market than abroad after taxes.

Refurbished iPhones sold at a cheaper rate would cater for the market's desire to own the prestige symbol, while not having to compromise on economic value.