Apple's plan to open retail stores in India hit a roadblock

In an blow to Apple Inc.'s plans to open branded stores in the country, the finance ministry has reportedly told Tim Cook led iphone and ipad maker to abide by the 30% local sourcing norm if it wants to open branded stores in India.

According to a report in Mint, the ministry had asked the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP) to review its recommendation and come out with proper guidelines defining "state-of-the-art" and "cutting-edge technology", under which it had sought to waive the local sourcing condition for Apple.

In November last year, the government eased norms for companies offering "state-of-the-art and cutting-edge" technology, saying such companies can open single brand outlets without meeting the local sourcing norm, subject to government approval.

Meanwhile, Chinese mobile companies LeEco and Xiaomi have also sought a waiver of the 30% sourcing norm.