Nokia is reportedly planning a major global workforce reduction that could impact more than 14,000 employees as part of a broader restructuring strategy. The Finnish telecom company, which currently employs around 74,000 people worldwide, is expected to reduce its workforce by nearly 20%, according to reports.
The potential layoffs come amid slowing demand and increasing cost pressures across the global technology sector. Nokia’s India operations, which employ over 17,000 people, are also likely to be affected by the restructuring exercise.
India Restructuring and Leadership Changes
As part of its reorganisation efforts, Nokia has reportedly begun preparing for workforce reductions in India. The company is also implementing leadership changes to streamline operations. Samar Mittal has been appointed as India Country Business Leader, while Vibha Mehra will take over as India Country Manager starting April 1, 2026. These changes follow the exit of former India head Tarun Chhabra.
The restructuring is expected to impact multiple teams, particularly in global and shared functions. Analysts suggest that Nokia’s earlier consolidation of its Cloud and Network Services division with Mobile Networks in 2023 may have resulted in overlapping roles, which could now be rationalised.
Weak Financial Performance and Industry Trends
Nokia’s India business has shown signs of weakening performance in recent months. The company reported a 15% year-on-year decline in net sales for the fourth quarter of 2025, with revenues falling to €393 million from €463 million in the same period a year earlier.
Globally, Nokia’s workforce has already seen a steady decline, shrinking from approximately 103,000 employees in 2018 to just over 74,000 currently. Reports indicate that job cuts may also extend to parts of Europe as the company seeks to optimise costs and improve efficiency.
The development aligns with a broader trend across the technology industry, where companies such as Microsoft and Google have announced layoffs in response to economic uncertainty and shifting market conditions.
Nokia’s restructuring reflects the increasing pressure on telecom and technology firms to streamline operations, adapt to evolving demand, and maintain profitability in a competitive global market.
