Sri Lankan ICT market:
Behaviour similar to developed markets
Indunil Hewage
The Sri Lankan ICT industry is showing tremendous growth as a result
of increasing demand from the consumers. Sri Lanka managed to sell over
350000 computers by 2009 and is expected to sell 650000 personnel
computers by 2014. The mobile communications industry is recording
around 20 to 25 percent growth per annum.
There is increase in consumer interest and sales of notebooks over
desktops over the past year |
PCH Marketing Head Rizwan Anise said Sri Lanka’s telecom sector has
soared in 2010 to over 15 million subscribers, led by a jump in new
mobile phone subscribers due to competition and falling call rates.
These figures clearly show the growth in the adoption of ICT in Sri
Lanka as the economy grows and consumer confidence improves.
“The Sri Lankan ICT industry has been eventful in the recent past.
Many new brands were launched and few withdrew. Many new technologies
were launched here almost immediately after they were launched abroad.
The market has begun to show similar behaviour as developed markets. Few
industry players have identified the growth potential the industry
possesses and ensured they capitalize,” Anise said.
This growth in IT understanding and confidence has in turn created a
trend in the industry that is presently at an early stage. However, the
industry shows clear signs of developing. Increased knowledge in ICT
among urban consumers have created a need to explore the many options IT
offers prior to making an IT purchase. Consumers are now aware of the
latest IT developments and are also aware of outdated technology.
This is clearly shown with the increase in consumer interest and
sales of notebooks over desktops over the past year. The demand the
consumer holds is far greater than it has ever been.
“Consumers are well aware of technology now. They are interested in
the higher technology segment and are willing to spend for a pricier
product that will stay within the Tech Radar for longer” Anise said.
He said “A modest research conducted a few months ago showed a need
in the consumer to shop at ease, over the then present service
over-the-counter method”, meaning the consumer preferred a super market
experience over a self service method. “Hence we at PCH introduced our
flagship store addressing this need of the consumer,” Anise said. |