Demand for liquid crystal display (LCD) monitors in the Middle East will surge in 2003, according to end-of-year research conducted by BenQ, digital lifestyle products manufacturer. BenQ’s long-term prediction is that LCDs will be used with about 30 percent of all the desktop computers within the region by 2005, a figure that will rise to 100 percent by 2007, as CRT technology is totally replaced.
“We found that an overwhelming number of people prefer the look and feel of LCD monitors over the more commonly-used cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors,” says Robert Dung, managing director of BenQ Middle East.
“As a new generation of slim, stylish space-saving LCD monitors hit the market in 2003 and, as the average price stabilizes, we’ll see that preference convert into rapidly accelerating sales. There’s a strong demand for the newest and best technology, and 2003 will really deliver that,” he asserted.
In total, LCD monitors are currently used with about 10 percent of the region’s workplace and domestic desktops computers. Many existing sales are driven by early-adopters looking for the newest technology, and also by sales on the re-export market. However, the higher price of LCD monitors in comparison with CRT versions has held back more dynamic growth.
“In 2003, we’ll see a number of changes in the LCD monitor market that will drive demand up,” says Dung. “Many distributors and systems integrators are now bundling LCD monitors with their branded and non-branded PCs, so customers find will find it easier to take home an LCD. In addition, the current world-wide shortage of LCD monitors will be resolved, which will have the effect of stabilizing prices.”
BenQ is the owner of the AU Panel factory, the second-largest manufacturer of LCD panels in the world. BenQ’s expertise encompass the display, storage, imaging, wireless, and broadband areas. BenQ Middle East’s headquarter office is located in Dubai’s Jebel Ali Free Zone. BenQ has manufacturing plants in China, Malaysia, Mexico, and Taiwan. The company has 12,000 employees worldwide. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
