The OpenAI is building its global presence right now and is making a significant push into one of the fastest growing technology markets. Previously announcing it is hiring in India and is preparing to open its first local office in New Delhi by 2025, it is very clear how big a consideration India is in the future road map for OpenAI.
CEO Sam Altman has spoken very positively about India’s growing AI ecosystem, and by setting up a physical office with local leadership, OpenAI is positioning not just for expansion only, but also establishing long term partnerships. Interestingly, other global competitors such as Google and Perplexity, have also increased investments into the AI market in India.
Why OpenAI sees India as a key AI growth market
India is now the second-highest market for ChatGPT users globally, with user growth expanding from 1 million users in 2022 to 4 million users in November 2023, according to Altman. This figures reinforces the country’s willingness to adopt advanced AI tools, while underscoring India’s relevance as a country influencing the development of future products.
By opening an OpenAI India office, OpenAI intends to allow better collaboration with its partners including businesses, startups, and policymakers. Altman remarked that he believes India will have a central role in shaping how AI technology continues to evolve, with India’s developers and enterprises advancing the development of AI technology across many industries.
Sam Altman’s vision for OpenAI in India
Altman has been clear about India’s significance. In a recent post on X, he said, “Opening our first office and building a local team is an important step in our commitment to make advanced AI more accessible across the country and to build AI for India and with India.”
He also emphasized how AI adoption in India is growing at an impressive pace. The launch of a low-cost subscription model, ChatGPT Go, priced at ₹399 per month, is part of that strategy. The tier was designed to make premium AI services more affordable for Indian users while encouraging free users to upgrade.
How the India office will shape OpenAI’s global future
India will be a hub for business development and an intermediary between global AI research and innovation in India. Feedback received from Indian users has already led to updates to GPT-5, which demonstrates why the Indian market is a crucial development space for *product* development.
Through hiring for leadership and expanding its presence OpenAI is building the foundation for the further adoption of AI, and isn’t limited to one sector but impacts various ones like education, health, finance, and e-commerce. OpenAI’s expansion is likely to solidify India’s role as, if not the leading country at least one of the leading countries, on the global stage in regards to digital transformation and adoption of AI.
Final thoughts on OpenAI’s India expansion
OpenAI’s announcement of a new office and immediate hiring for management positions is a watershed moment in their corporate evolution. The move signals the importance of India’s large user base and rapidly growing AI ecosystem. As the global competition landscape continues to heat, OpenAI is placing itself as a technology provider, and a long-term partner in India’s digital future.
About The Author
