Local appliances makers urged to sell in Malaysia

The Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport) is urging local exporters and makers of houseware and appliances to consider selling products and tapping opportunities in the Malaysian market.

Citing a report from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), Philexport said Malaysia offers opportunities for firms engaged in the manufacture and sale of houseware and small home appliances.

“Along with ongoing urbanization, the rising number of residential developments in Malaysia has boosted the demand for houseware and small home appliances in the major cities. With growing economic affluence translating into rising purchasing power, more mid-to-high income consumers are looking for modern, high-quality, durable homeware products, manufactured without the use of harmful chemicals,” HKTDC said.

HKTDC expects volume of sales of household appliances in Malaysia to grow to 16.4 million units by 2022.

Amid growing popularity of online recipe-sharing platforms, YouTube cooking tutorials and cooking blogs, more young Malaysian adults are becoming interested in cooking and baking.

In-store demonstrations and online marketing activities of kitchenware brands are also helping raise consumers’ awareness on new types of cookware and other related products.

“Price, product design and color are the main factors that influence their purchasing decisions. In general, the product cycle for kitchenware lasts about six months to one year,” HKTDC said.

As more Malaysian consumers are becoming health-conscious and have busier lifestyles, the HKTDC report said demand for small home appliances offering convenience and efficiency is growing.

In particular, new-generation and innovative products such as air purifiers, automatic coffee machines, cordless vacuum cleaners, and multi-functional cookware are popular among consumers.