Rush to lap up laptops before stocks vanish
There is a misconception spreading on social media that after the import ban, laptop prices might increase or there could be a shortage in supply
On Friday there was news that there is a ban on the import of personal computers, laptops and tablets from immediate effect. After this news, there was a rush among people and they started buying laptops. Due to this laptop sales increased 25% as compared to the previous weekend. However, just the next day the government informed us that it has postponed its decision to impose a ban on the import of these items. Still despite this, the trend in sales continued even on Monday. Basically, people started fearing that after a ban there will be a shortage of laptops in the country and laptop prices may shoot up. Due to this, they rushed to buy them.
Laptops available on sale
On the occasion of Independence Day, several e-commerce platforms are coming up with different sales. In these, laptop sales soar. After the news on ban, there has been a surge in laptop sales at Amazon’s Independence Sale. A similar trend is visible at retail stores. According to figures obtained from the major electronic store Vijay Sales, laptop sales last weekend increased by 20 percent compared to the previous week.
There is a misconception spreading on social media that after the import ban, laptop prices might increase or there could be a shortage in supply. As a result, many people have started buying laptops out of fear. The government is also closely monitoring this situation to ensure that shopkeepers won’t increase price in leu of higher sales.
To promote domestic production of computers, laptops, and tablets, the government had imposed a ban on their free import. However, the government has extended the decision to ban the import of laptops, computers, and tablets until October 31. Electronic companies will be able to import these devices without a licence for a period of three months. Starting from November 1, these companies will need to obtain a licence from the government to import laptops and computers. The import of computers, laptops, and tablets will now fall under the Restricted category. If import is necessary, a valid import license will be required. However, products imported under baggage rules will not be subject to this ban.
Published: August 8, 2023, 18:35 IST