OpenAI is officially expanding into India with plans to open its first office in New Delhi, marking a major step into one of the world’s fastest-growing AI markets. The announcement comes shortly after the launch of ChatGPT Go, a low-cost subscription plan designed specifically for Indian users at ₹399 ($4.75) per month.
The company said it has begun building a local team to strengthen ties with governments, businesses, developers, and academic institutions. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the move as a commitment to “build AI for India, and with India,” emphasizing the importance of creating tools and features tailored to local needs.
As part of its rollout, OpenAI will host its first Education Summit in India this month and a Developer Day later this year. The company is also seeking feedback from Indian users to make its products more relevant to the local audience.
India’s massive internet and smartphone user base makes it an attractive market for global AI players like Google, Meta, and Perplexity, which are also competing for attention. Perplexity recently struck a deal with Bharti Airtel to offer its Pro plan to over 360 million subscribers, highlighting the competitive landscape OpenAI is entering.
Despite the opportunity, OpenAI faces challenges in converting free users into paid subscribers in a price-sensitive market, as well as navigating copyright disputes. In November, Asian News International (ANI) sued the company over alleged unauthorized use of its news content, with other publishers joining the case earlier this year.
Still, India’s government is actively promoting AI through the IndiaAI Mission, aiming to boost the country’s global position in the sector. “India has all the ingredients to become a global AI leader,” Altman said, pointing to the country’s talent, developer ecosystem, and government support.
India joins Japan, Singapore, and South Korea as OpenAI’s Asian office locations. With the New Delhi office, OpenAI is betting on India’s growing role in digital innovation and AI adoption to cement its presence in the region.
