In a momentous development, once again, the government has demonstrated its resolute intent to impose restrictions on the import of laptops, computers, and tablets. This announcement has ignited a blend of responses within the realm of industry players, as it presents a combination of promising advantages and immediate hurdles for the advancement of the nation's IT market. Mr. Alok Gupta, the President of PCAIT, has conveyed his personal views regarding this latest development in an exclusive conversation with DT. Discover his insights below.
Boost to Make in India
Commenting on the impact of restriction imposed on import, Alok Gupta, PCAIT President said, “The government's decision to restrict the import of laptops, computers, and tablets is undoubtedly a significant boost to the Make in India initiative. The Make in India campaign was launched with the objective of transforming India into a global manufacturing hub and promoting indigenous manufacturing across various sectors, including electronics.”
He further added, “By limiting the import of these electronic devices, the government is creating a favorable environment for domestic manufacturers and encouraging them to produce these products within the country. This move will not only reduce India's dependence on foreign imports but also provide a much-needed fillip to the local manufacturing sector, generating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.”
Import License for Premium Models
“Many big brands have already established manufacturing facilities in India for their mainstream and budget product lines. However, premium models require advanced technologies and specialized processes that may not be available in India or may require significant investments to set up. As a result, some premium models are still imported rather than being manufactured locally. For premium models, big brands may need to obtain an import license, as per the government's regulations, or setup manufacturing facilities in India. By encouraging big brands to either obtain import licenses or set up manufacturing facilities for premium models in India, the government is attempting to strike a balance between promoting local manufacturing and meeting the demands of consumers who seek high-end products,” concluded by Alok Gupta.
Refurbished Laptops Posing Challenge
Speaking about the impact of refurbished laptops on market, Alok Gupta stated, “The influx of refurbished laptops into the Indian market can indeed pose a challenge to the domestic manufacturing sector in the short term. Refurbished laptops, often sold at lower prices, can attract price-conscious consumers and potentially impact the sales of new laptops manufactured in India. However, this situation can also present an opportunity for Indian manufacturers to adapt and innovate, ultimately leading to a boost in their competitiveness. While refurbished laptops may offer a cost-effective option to consumers, they typically have a limited supply and may not always meet the latest specifications and performance standards. On the other hand, locally manufactured laptops have the advantage of being new, with the latest technology and features, and often come with warranties and after-sales support.”
