LG may launch notebook PCs in India

Korean major LG Electronics hopes to launch its notebook computers in India at attractive prices in anticipation of a further cut in import tariffs in the Budget for 2005-06.

"We are planning to launch notebook PCs here. We will take a final decision after the Budget next month," LG Electronics India general manager R Manikandan told reporters in Bangalore on Thursday.

He said if the import tariffs come down further to about five per cent this year in line with India's commitment to the World Trade Organisation, LG would be able to price its notebook PCs competitively in the country.

Manikandan said the company plans to double its IT business in India during 2005, up from the Rs 741 crore (Rs 7.41 billion) recorded in 2004, which was a 69 per cent jump from revenues of Rs 437 crore (Rs 4.37 billion).

He said the Indian PC market was moving towards the branded segment due to general awareness among consumers.

Quoting market research firm IDC, Manikandan said, LG stood at third position with a market share of 6.4 per cent, led by HP at 14.2 per cent and HCL at 13.7 per cent in PC sales.