RIM looking at manufacturing and logistics operations in India

MUMBAI: Betting big on the Indian market, Nasdaq-listed smartphone maker Research In Motion (RIM)today said it is looking at starting manufacturing and logistics operations in the country apart from bringing in India-specific phones.

"We plan to increase in resources to manage Indian operations to truly grow to future. We are developing a new India strategy that includes starting manufacturing and logistics operations in India," RIM Co-Chief Executive Officer Jim Balsillie said here while unveiling a Blackberry Bold smartphone. Describing India as the most exciting and fast growing mobile market with huge growth potential, he said that the company was "absolutely committed to making India-specific phones".

"Along with China and Brazil, India is a strategic growth market for the company," he said. RIM has so far tied up with five Indian carriers to launch its Blackberry solutions - Vodafone Essar, Airtel, Reliance, BPL Mobile and Tata Teleservices. RIM has partnership with 375 carriers and channels globally in 140 countries. In the Asia-Pacific region alone, the company has tie-ups with 39 carriers in 18 markets. "RIM will tap the growing smartphone market with existing and new carrier partnerships in India," Balsillie said.