Acer prepares for surge in Indochina’s IT spending

Acer is angling to capitalise on soaring information technology (IT) spending in Indochina once the Asean Economic Community (AEC) takes effect from 2015.

The Taiwan-based company expects its revenue from Indochina to grow by 35-40% between 2013 and 2016.

Thailand is Acer Computer Co’s regional hub, from where it also serves new markets in Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia, said Alan Chiang, general manager of the company.

In 2013, Acer Computer Thailand expects Indochina to contribute US$45 million to total revenue of $400 million.

Acer plans to use the Thai unit’s business model in other countries in the region, he added.

In Myanmar, the company will open an office next month to cash in on massive foreign capital inflows in sectors such as telecoms, said Boonyaphat Choobunjerd, Acer Thailand’s head for Indochina.

Myanmar’s PC penetration is currently only 2-3% for a population of more than 60 million, he added.

Acer can swiftly take advantage of new opportunities in Indochina through the company’s strong regional distribution networks and partnerships, said Mr Chiang.

At least 3% of revenue from Indochina will be allocated for marketing to build brand awareness, he said.

‘‘By 2015, the Indochina market is likely to generate 25% of total revenue for Acer Thailand,’’ he said.

Thailand’s IT market is mature and has been hit by a sluggish economy, he added.

But growth in smartphones and tablets will enable Acer to keep expanding its revenue in Thailand this year, despite a forecast 10-15% dip in the country’s IT retail spending, he added.

In another development, Asustek Computer (Thailand) will also open four services centres in Myanmar in October in preparation for the AEC.