August 27, 2025 - OpenAI has confirmed plans to establish its first international office in New Delhi later this year, as India emerges as ChatGPT's second-largest user base globally. The expansion comes alongside the introduction of a new budget-friendly subscription tier priced at approximately $4.60 per month, designed specifically for emerging markets.
The move reflects India's rapidly growing importance in the global AI landscape, with millions of users adopting ChatGPT for education, business, and creative applications. OpenAI's decision to establish a physical presence in India suggests a long-term commitment to the region beyond simple market access. "India represents not just a massive user base, but a reservoir of AI talent and innovation that we want to tap into directly," commented TechCrunch sources close to OpenAI's international expansion team.
This expansion occurs as governments worldwide grapple with AI regulation and as companies seek to diversify their operational footprint beyond Western markets. India's relatively supportive regulatory environment for AI development, combined with its skilled workforce and growing digital economy, makes it an attractive destination for AI companies seeking global expansion.
Our view: OpenAI's India expansion represents a shrewd strategic move that balances market access with talent acquisition. The lower-priced subscription tier demonstrates understanding that AI accessibility requires economic as well as technological considerations. However, this expansion also raises important questions about data sovereignty and whether AI development will become increasingly fragmented along national lines, potentially undermining the global nature of AI progress.
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