ViewSonic says LCD market may grow 30%-40% in Middle East

Dubai: The Middle East's LCD market is excpected to grow by 30-40 per cent next year, according to ViewSonic Corp, a leading manufacturer of display technologies.

"The UAE is the fastest growing market in the Mideast and the rate of growth is very high when compared to other markets," says Aaron Fright, regional manager, ViewSonic Middle East and Africa told Gulf News.

"The region is expected to absorb about 30-35 per cent in unit terms for this year and next year under current projections."

Fright says year after year the Middle East market demonstrates that it is becoming an increasingly early adopter of technologies.

"Viewsonic is well placed to continue its growth next year also as we did in 2006. We have very good partners in place which will allow us to grow and exploit the market and expects to become No 1 by next year," he said.

"The majority of the key markets in the region have excellent and continuously improving IT infrastructures that allow them to harness some of the new and innovative technologies making users more sophisticated and technically aware," he said.

ViewSonic has seen increase in business this year, with 17 times faster growth in first half of 2006 compared to first half of 2005, making it the second-fastest growing monitor company in the region.

The company is showing the world's first "Made for iPod" desktop display technology with an integrated iPod dock at Gitex. This will be the first time the ViewDock, which has been designed to be part of the digital lifestyles of the iPod generation, will be on display in the Middle East.

"The majority of the key markets in the region have excellent and continuously improving IT infrastructures that allow them to harness some of the new and innovative technologies making users more sophisticated and technically aware," he adds.

ViewSonic has seen an impressive increase in business this year, with 17 times faster growth in first half of 2006 compared to first half of 2005, making it the second-fastest growing monitor company in the region.

Fright claims that the LCD prices are likely to fall next year.

"The ViewSonic ViewDock concept offers a unique opportunity for everyone, from teens and young adults to business professionals, to get the most from their digital devices," he said.

"Well, I don't see a consolidation in the industry. Because Sony is quitting the industry and there is further room to fill," says Fright.

Fright says ViewSonic will use the show to expand its regional customer base and talk with partners. He claims that Gitex, unlike other traditional trade and consumer shows, is important at a regional level.