‘Xiaomi wants to bring ancillaries, 50 firms expected’

Firm seeks assurance on sentiment around Chinese investments: Ministry official

A customer looks at products at a Xiaomi shop in a shopping mall in Barcelona, Spain February 28, 2018. Picture taken February 28, 2018. REUTERS/Yves Herman

Chinese technology firm Xiaomi, which is known for its Mi range of smartphones, has sought support from the Indian government to bring more of its ecosystem products into the country.

“In a meeting with Electronics and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad last week, Xiaomi India Head Manu Jain shared the company’s plans to bring its ancillary products to India,” a senior IT Ministry official said.

‘‘Announcement soon’

The official added that Mr. Jain sought government support amid campaigns from certain segments leading to anti-Chinese sentiments.

“They want to bring their ancillary units.. around 50 of these are expected to come to India. They want certain amount of surety and support that Chinese firms are not unwelcome here,” the official said, adding that Xiaomi is likely to make some announcement related to this soon, “The minister might also attend the event,” the official said.

A spokesman for Xiaomi declined comment on the issue. As per the company’s website, Xiaomi has invested in about 89 companies that design and manufacture products across categories such as smart homes, appliances, security, beauty and personal care, smart watches, smart lights, photo and video cameras as well as electric transport. These together form the 'Mi Ecosystem'.

Xiaomi sells products such as air purifiers, fitness bands, VR headsets and power banks, besides smartphones in India.