Panasonic To Develop India As Manufacturing Hub For Domestic Market & Exports

New Delhi, Dec 4 (KNN) Panasonic Corporation is positioning itself for significant expansion in the Indian market, with plans for substantial growth and long-term strategic development. 

Manish Sharma, Chairman, Panasonic Life Solutions India and South Asia, revealed that the company expects a ‘double-digit’ revenue increase in the current fiscal year, reflecting its strong commitment to the Indian market.

Despite contributing less than 2 per cent to the company's global revenue, India remains one of Panasonic's top three potential markets. 

Over the past decade, the Japanese corporation has invested heavily in the region, establishing five factories and two innovation centres. 

The company is pursuing a strategic approach that goes beyond mere market opportunity, focusing on building comprehensive capabilities in manufacturing and innovation.

Currently, Panasonic's Indian revenue portfolio is diverse, with approximately 40 per cent derived from consumer products including television panels, air conditioners, refrigerators, and washing machines. 

The remaining revenue comes from wire and wiring devices, along with various business-to-business products that are less widely recognised.

The company is also targeting ambitious export goals, aiming to double its export volume within the next three years. 

Presently, Panasonic exports products such as air conditioners, LED TVs, wiring devices, and appliances like rice cookers to neighbouring South Asian countries, with exports currently accounting for 8-9per cent of its total revenue.

Sharma noted significant shifts in the Indian consumer electronics landscape, highlighting emerging trends of premiumisation and increased consumer awareness. 

Consumers are increasingly willing to invest in higher-value products, demonstrating growing sophistication in purchasing decisions. 

Factors driving this change include rising disposable incomes, digital convergence, and a preference for technologically advanced, multifunctional products.

Looking ahead, Panasonic sees immense potential in the Indian market, anticipating diverse opportunities that will persist for decades. 

The company is preparing to introduce high-tech products and solutions specifically tailored to Indian market needs, positioning itself to capitalise on the country's evolving consumer electronics ecosystem.

(KNN Bureau)