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 Consumers are now aware of the latest IT developments and are also aware of outdated technology.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.

source - www.dailynews.lk

More IT News -

01- IT for lasting peace  

02 -Lanka can immediately excel in KPOs, while BPO capacity builds up