[🇧🇩] Electronics and Home Appliances Industry in Bangladesh

[Bilal9]

Singer Bangladesh has started commercial production in the Japanese export zone which is a model zone in Bangladesh.

 

[Saif]

Walton makes more shares available to public

Sponsor directors of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC have transferred nearly 29.7 percent of their shares to non-director family members, most of it as gifts, based on a regulatory instruction, according to a BRAC EPL Stock Brokerage report yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Walton makes more shares available to public

Sponsor directors of Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC have transferred nearly 29.7 percent of their shares to non-director family members, most of it as gifts, based on a regulatory instruction, according to a BRAC EPL Stock Brokerage report yesterday.

When the Bangladeshi electronics and technology product manufacturer and exporter went for its initial public offering (IPO) in 2020, it had made less than 1 percent of its shares available to the general public.

Afterwards, the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) had instructed the company to offload more shares.

Sponsors and directors of the company started to sell their shares from the end of 2023.

They also gifted shares to their family members who were not directors. Though the shares were tradeable, the family members retained those, for which no volatility was created in the market.

In other words, through such share sales and giftings, the company increased free float, meaning the number of shares available for trade by the public.

At present, sponsor and directors hold 74.07 percent of the company's shares, institutional investors 0.52 percent, foreigners 0.09 percent and public 25.32 percent, according to the Dhaka Stock Exchange.

On the other hand, the offloading will enable the company to avail an income tax reduction of 2.5 percent.

According to regulations of the National Board of Revenue, any company having a free float of at least 10 percent will enjoy an income tax rate of 22.5 percent instead of the usual 25 percent.

Moreover, for fiscal year 2023-24, the company announced a 350 percent cash dividend for general shareholders and a 200 percent cash dividend for directors and sponsors.

Though the offloading will result in the company paying an additional Tk 111 crore in dividends, the money will essentially end up going back to the family.

Shares of the A category company rose 2 percent to Tk 494 at the Dhaka Stock Exchange yesterday.​

 

[Saif]

High-end electronics sales hurt by runaway inflation

The demand for consumer electronics in the mid to high-end categories has declined drastically in Bangladesh as most people are shifting to cheaper alternatives or avoiding purchases altogether amid persistent inflation.

www.thedailystar.net

High-end electronics sales hurt by runaway inflation

The demand for consumer electronics in the mid to high-end categories has declined drastically in Bangladesh as most people are shifting to cheaper alternatives or avoiding purchases altogether amid persistent inflation.

Besides, product prices have risen sharply as the repeated devaluation of the local currency made it more expensive to import the required components and spare parts, according to market insiders.

Considering their eroding purchasing power, consumers are being particularly frugal for now as economic uncertainty has been gripping the nation ever since the political changeover on August 5.

As such, most of them are shifting to lower priced local brands for consumer electronics.

Product prices have risen sharply as the repeated devaluation of the taka made it more expensive to import the required components and spare parts, insiders said

Although Bangladesh Bank has announced several hikes in interest rates to blunt the brutal inflationary pressure, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has been hovering around 10 percent since March 2023.

In September this year, the CPI stood at 9.92 percent, down from 10.49 percent the month prior, showed Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics data.

"Television (TV) sales in the lower price segment have increased by 3-4 percent as the consumers are shifting to local brands," said Ritesh Ranjan, head of business at Transcom Digital.

On the other hand, sales of high-end TVs declined by about 30 percent year-on-year in the four months since July as prices have surged by 22 to 28 percent in line with the growing cost of US dollars.

Likewise, overall sales of consumer electronics decreased by 28 percent year-on-year in the July-October period as prices ballooned, he added.

Ranjan informed that the import duty for components and spare parts required to locally assemble TVs, fridges and other products of foreign brands has increased by 15 percent on average solely due to the depreciation of the local currency.

"The impact of this price hike is falling on consumers," he said. "Other than high-end TVs and air conditioners (ACs), the demand for washing machines and microwaves has also fallen for the same reason."

Ranjan further said there are no high-end refrigerators available on the market for less than Tk 1 lakh. Units that previously cost Tk 80,000 are now priced at Tk 120,000.

He also said the market sentiment has been deteriorating over the past two months, with AC sales having fallen by more than 50 percent year-on-year.

Amid this situation, Transcom is offering discounts of up to 20 percent on ACs, 17 percent on refrigerators and 13 percent on TVs.

They can even enjoy an easy repayment facility of up to 36 equal monthly instalments, Ranjan said.

Galib Bin Mohammad, chief marketing officer (CMO) of Walton Hi-Tech Industries, said consumers and producers alike are struggling due to the overall adverse economic situation.

However, he said his company has been able to overcome the subsequent challenges so far through proper planning and management.

"From the beginning, we have focused on ensuring quality across all product categories," he added.

According to Mohammad, Walton offers both mid-range and high-end products at very competitive prices.

"So, as consumers are getting quality products at competitive prices, they are preferring domestic brands to foreign ones," he added.

Md Meshbahuddin, chief marketing officer of Fair Electronics, said sales of consumer electronics usually increase in the second half of each year.

However, this year has been different as the market is quite dull at present, he added.

Fair Electronics locally manufactures and retails products of Samsung Electronics, a leading South Korean multinational home appliance and electronics company.

Meshbahuddin said the industry's sufferings began in early 2023 and are continuing as input prices have risen significantly due to the price hike of US dollars.

Also, consumers are not in a buying mood due to the uncertain political situation and volatility in the banking sector.

"Basically, people do not know what situation may arise in the future. For this reason, they are not interested in purchasing costly products right now."

Md Nurul Afser, deputy managing director of Electro Mart, said their sales revenue declined significantly since July, making it challenging to meet operational costs.

"It is really tough to predict what may happen next in the market," he added.​

 

[Bilal9]

Samsung's lower end brand HiSense (China) has started manufacturing operations in Bangladesh (only LED TVs and Aircons for now). Local parts indigenization is still low, but will be ramped up as sales volume goes up. Local mfg. partner Fair electronics reported with pride that the return rate of defective products are much lower than imported HiSense products from China or Vietnam, probably due to increased and stringent quality checks.

 

[Saif]

Walton extends warranty of computer monitor up to 3 years

Walton Digi-Tech Industries Limited, the leading tech giant in Bangladesh, has increased the warranty of computer monitors. Now customers can enjoy up to three years of warranty benefits of up to 22-inch monitors of all models of Walton's CiNEd and CiNEXA and ACC brands, according to a media relea

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Walton extends warranty of computer monitor up to 3 years
FE Online Desk
Published :
Dec 21, 2024 20:42
Updated :
Dec 21, 2024 20:42

Walton Digi-Tech Industries Limited, the leading tech giant in Bangladesh, has increased the warranty of computer monitors.

Now customers can enjoy up to three years of warranty benefits of up to 22-inch monitors of all models of Walton's CiNEd and CiNEXA and ACC brands, according to a media release.

Walton provides 3-year warranty for various parts of panel and motherboard of 21.45 to 22-inch monitors. This customer benefit is effective from December 16, 2024.

Touhidur Rahman Rad, Chief Business Officer of Walton Computer Products, said: Walton monitors have won the hearts of customers for its international standard, quality and state-of-the-art features and technologies. We expect that the trust of customers will be much stronger on Walton monitors after the warranty extension announcement.

Note that Walton has also 24 and 27 inch monitors with various features and specifications. The company is providing 10 percent flat discounts for all models of monitors on online purchase (details: Discount Offer | Walton Digi-Tech Industries Ltd).

Customers can avail of this benefit from online orders with free home delivery service.

They can also purchase Walton brand’s new monitors in exchange of old (active or inactive) ones from any Walton Plaza, the release adds.​

 

[Saif]

Rangs launches new Kelvinator products

Rangs Electronics Limited, also known as ‘SONY-RANGS’, has recently launched its latest 2025 series Kelvinator air conditioner, refrigerator and washing machine for Bangladesh market, said a press release...

www.newagebd.net

Rangs launches new Kelvinator products
Business Desk 06 January, 2025, 22:08

Rangs Electronics has launched 2025 series of Kelvinator air conditioner, refrigerator and washing machine for Bangladesh market recently. | Press release

Rangs Electronics Limited, also known as ‘SONY-RANGS’, has recently launched its latest 2025 series Kelvinator air conditioner, refrigerator and washing machine for Bangladesh market, said a press release.

Ekram Hussain, managing director of Rangs Electronics, inaugurated the event along with dealers, customers and other high officials from Rangs Electronics Limited.​

 

[Saif]

Samsung unveils six microwaves assembled by Transcom

Samsung Electronics Bangladesh has introduced six distinct models of microwave ovens that are being assembled in the country by its local partner Transcom Electronics Limited.."The new models combine innovative technology with practical features that make cooking smarter and healthier," sa

www.thedailystar.net

Samsung unveils six microwaves assembled by Transcom

Samsung Electronics Bangladesh has introduced six distinct models of microwave ovens that are being assembled in the country by its local partner Transcom Electronics Limited.

"The new models combine innovative technology with practical features that make cooking smarter and healthier," said Jung Min Jung, managing director of Samsung Electronics Bangladesh.

He was speaking at the unveiling ceremony for these new products at the Amari Dhaka hotel in the capital yesterday.

Jung said Samsung prioritises researching consumer "pain points" and precisely identifying their needs.

Based on these insights, the company incorporates solutions as exclusive features, ensuring unmatched convenience compared to other brands, he added.

The products, themed "Cook Healthy, Live Smart," incorporate unique features such as Slim Fry Technology, which allows users to prepare fried foods with up to 80 percent less oil.

Meanwhile, the Triple Distribution System ensures evenly cooked meals by distributing heat through three antennas. Besides, the Durable Ceramic Enamel Coating, backed by a 10-year warranty, simplifies cleaning and ensures lasting durability for daily use.

The ovens also include features like Quick Defrost, Deodorization, Browning Plus, Turntable On/Off, and Eco Mode for everyday convenience.

With prices starting at Tk 18,500, these microwave ovens are now available at all Transcom Digital, Rangs eMart, and Electra outlets, as well as Samsung's authorised dealer stores.

The newly launched models include three 28-litre convection microwave ovens (MC28AK, MC28VK, MC28VS), a 23-litre solo microwave oven (MS23AK), a 23-litre grill microwave oven (MG23AK), and a 21-litre convection microwave oven (CE76JD).

Shahriar Bin Lutfor, director and head of business at Samsung Electronics Bangladesh; Md Shahidul Islam, chief operating officer at Transcom Electronics; Ritesh Ranjan, head of business at Transcom Digital; Yeamin Sharif Chowdhury, divisional director of electronics at Rancon Holdings Limited; Shahid Ahmed Abdullah, executive director at Electra International; and ASM Muntasir Chowdhury, deputy general manager of product and marketing at Butterfly Marketing Limited, were also present.​

 

[Saif]

Local AC industry seeks ‘fair’ govt procurement policy

Local air conditioner (AC) manufacturers in Bangladesh are pushing for “fair” government procurement policies, arguing that existing rules favour foreign brands despite local companies meeting global standards.

www.thedailystar.net

Local AC industry seeks ‘fair’ govt procurement policy

Local air conditioner (AC) manufacturers in Bangladesh are pushing for "fair" government procurement policies, arguing that existing rules favour foreign brands despite local companies meeting global standards.

They urge the authorities to prioritise quality over origin.

According to industry insiders, around 6 to 6.5 lakh residential ACs are sold every year.

Moreover, there is a demand for around 40,000 units of light commercial ACs, including cassette and ceiling-type units.

Meanwhile, there is also significant demand for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions, comprising variable refrigerant flow and chiller systems, for large spaces.

Generally, pricing for government purchases is determined based on the Harmonised System code, a standardised international numerical method of classifying products. However, industry insiders argue that this system does not always provide a level playing field for local companies.

Currently, the government procures products through various policies that align with international standards, following the schedule of rates set by the Public Works Department.

According to industry insiders, many local manufacturers, including Walton, Transtec, Gree, Singer, and Media, adhere to these standards and have acquired the necessary certifications.

Some have even secured international quality certifications, ensuring their products are competitive with imported alternatives.

Despite these achievements, local manufacturers face hurdles due to procurement policies that sometimes specify the country of origin rather than focusing solely on product quality and specifications.

"If the government provides clear and specific guidelines, we will be able to manufacture products accordingly," said Md Tanvir Rahman, chief business officer of Walton Air Conditioner.

"However, if procurement decisions are made solely based on the country of origin, it creates an unnecessary barrier for domestic producers," Rahman said.

He said public procurement in Bangladesh was governed by the Public Procurement Act, which mandates that purchases be made based on quality rather than specifying particular countries.

However, in practice, he said, many tenders still include specific country requirements, contradicting the intent of the law. This restriction prevents local manufacturers from competing fairly in government projects, he added. Despite controlling around 90 percent of the local AC market, domestic manufacturers struggle to secure government contracts, he said.

"We are not asking for undue preference. We only seek fair participation in government tenders," said Rahman.

He also stressed that prioritising high-quality domestic products over foreign alternatives would not only strengthen the local industry but also boost employment and economic growth.

Salim Ullah, director (marketing) of Jamuna Electronics, said government entities impose certain conditions that prevent local manufacturers from participating in government tenders.

He stated that these entities specify certain product requirements that local electronic manufacturers cannot fulfil under the open tender method.

He claimed that local manufacturers have already met global standards for TVs, air conditioners, refrigerators, and other electronic appliances.

"We, the local manufacturers, cater to 80 percent of the demand for electronic home appliances across the country, while the remaining 20 percent is met by multinational companies," he pointed out.

However, he said, local manufacturers rarely supply government entities, as these entities follow the direct procurement method.

Md Nurul Afser, deputy managing director of Electro Mart, said government procurement entities usually do not prefer locally manufactured electronic items, as they explicitly mention the country of origin.

For this reason, there is limited opportunity to participate in government tenders, he said.

He emphasised the need to prioritise local manufacturers by ensuring they meet the required standards, as this would be cost-effective and help save foreign exchange.

With Bangladesh's AC industry reaching new heights, ensuring fair procurement policies will be crucial in maintaining growth and sustaining local manufacturing capabilities, Afser suggested.

Md Nasim Khan, additional chief engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD), Dhaka Metropolitan Zone, said the allegations made by local electronics manufacturers do not apply to all government entities, as procurement criteria vary from one entity to another.

According to him, there is no mandatory requirement to follow the PWD criteria. Rather, most public procurement entities set their own criteria based on public procurement rules (PPR).

He also stated that PPR 2008 emphasises supporting local manufacturers to protect domestic companies.

Md Aynal Haque, professor of the electronics and electrical engineering department at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (Buet), stated that local electronic manufacturers have achieved a certain level of standard.

Therefore, the government should allow them to participate in government tenders, he said.

He also suggested that the time has come to revise the conditions of the rate schedule of the PWD so that local electronic manufacturers can take part in tenders.

If there is a requirement for standard and quality checks, the procurement entities can have them tested at the Buet lab, he noted.​

 

[Bilal9]

Sky Bees to invest Tk 550cr to set up drone factory in Bangladesh​

Sky Bees Limited, a newly established company, will today sign an agreement with the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (Bepza) for land to set up an export-oriented unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production facility.

Sky Bees is set to invest about Tk 550 crore to establish the facility, which will be built inside the BEPZA industrial estate at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar in Chattogram's Mirsarai upazila.

The company expects to export UAVs, commonly known as drones, worth $169 million or roughly Tk 2,300 crore annually after starting production in early 2025.

Sky Bees is the brainchild of Josim Ahmed, an industrialist with an impressive track record in the textile and garment accessories sector, particularly within the export processing zones of Dhaka and Pabna's Ishwardi upazila.

Ahmed's experience extends to his role in establishing two joint ventures: Global Levels Bangladesh Limited, a Spain-Bangladesh partnership, and Jinque Global Textile Bangladesh Limited, a China-Bangladesh collaboration.

With Sky Bees, Ahmed is now focusing on the future, investing in advanced UAV technology, a sector that holds great promise for Bangladesh's export landscape.

According to him, this project represents the hopes of "many dreamers and confident young people."

He describes their journey as one filled with challenges but driven by innovation.

Regarding his team, Ahmed said: "Their eyes and body language make us brave."

He also noted that their progress in making UAV technology has been substantial despite having limited support for research and development.

Sky Bees has already secured overseas training opportunities for its engineers, enabling them to refine their skills and expertise in drone development, Ahmed added.

Its factory will initially produce high-capacity rotary wing drones for firefighting and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones for cinematography, mapping and surveillance.

They also plan to manufacture 10 additional models with varying payload capacities and endurance.

These UAVs, designed primarily for civil applications, will be used for a range of tasks, including spraying pesticides, delivery services and disaster relief operations.

The company's proposal to BEPZA outlines an ambitious target: the production and export of 7,314 UAVs annually, according to Ahmed.

ASM Anwar Parvez, executive director (public relations) of Bepza, told The Daily Star they are going to sign the deal with Sky Bees to lease land to set up the factory.

 

[Saif]

Sky Bees to invest Tk 550cr to set up drone factory in Bangladesh​

View attachment 14395

Sky Bees Limited, a newly established company, will today sign an agreement with the Bangladesh Export Processing Zones Authority (Bepza) for land to set up an export-oriented unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production facility.

Sky Bees is set to invest about Tk 550 crore to establish the facility, which will be built inside the BEPZA industrial estate at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar in Chattogram's Mirsarai upazila.

The company expects to export UAVs, commonly known as drones, worth $169 million or roughly Tk 2,300 crore annually after starting production in early 2025.

Sky Bees is the brainchild of Josim Ahmed, an industrialist with an impressive track record in the textile and garment accessories sector, particularly within the export processing zones of Dhaka and Pabna's Ishwardi upazila.

Ahmed's experience extends to his role in establishing two joint ventures: Global Levels Bangladesh Limited, a Spain-Bangladesh partnership, and Jinque Global Textile Bangladesh Limited, a China-Bangladesh collaboration.

With Sky Bees, Ahmed is now focusing on the future, investing in advanced UAV technology, a sector that holds great promise for Bangladesh's export landscape.

According to him, this project represents the hopes of "many dreamers and confident young people."

He describes their journey as one filled with challenges but driven by innovation.

Regarding his team, Ahmed said: "Their eyes and body language make us brave."

He also noted that their progress in making UAV technology has been substantial despite having limited support for research and development.

Sky Bees has already secured overseas training opportunities for its engineers, enabling them to refine their skills and expertise in drone development, Ahmed added.

Its factory will initially produce high-capacity rotary wing drones for firefighting and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drones for cinematography, mapping and surveillance.

They also plan to manufacture 10 additional models with varying payload capacities and endurance.

These UAVs, designed primarily for civil applications, will be used for a range of tasks, including spraying pesticides, delivery services and disaster relief operations.

The company's proposal to BEPZA outlines an ambitious target: the production and export of 7,314 UAVs annually, according to Ahmed.

ASM Anwar Parvez, executive director (public relations) of Bepza, told The Daily Star they are going to sign the deal with Sky Bees to lease land to set up the factory.

It's a great news. Thank you for posting it

 

[Bilal9]

It's a great news. Thank you for posting it

No problem bhai. Here are three more pieces of news, first two for civilian commercial drones and the other is for defence purposes.

 

[Bilal9]

Walton Superfactory videos, re-posting these as I haven't seen these in a while, others here haven't either , I don't believe.







Here is an eye-opening video on how Walton machines/manufactures its own hardened molds for press-molding thick sheet metal parts for appliance use (Refrigerators, Aircon, utility switches, fans and small kitchen appliance usage). Walton Hi-Tech Industries PLC. is the leading Stamping Die manufacturer in Bangladesh - based on precise tooling, the most advanced technology and top grade expert stamping die design. Walton has established the main markets locally and overseas to supply stamped metal parts including those made with deep-draw stamping techniques. Very technical, and for those who don't understand, ask me - I can explain. The level of backward linkage is getting to be phenomenal at Walton.