A huge concern for Malaysians starting from today will be the implementation of the Government’s Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the implications of rising living costs. GST affects many industries, including the tech sector. OPPO Malaysia, however, has officially announced that it will absorb GST costs for its customers, meaning no price hikes for any of its products.
William Fang, CEO of OPPO Malaysia said in a statement that OPPO realises how concerned Malaysians are about their spending and expenses and this is a principal reason why they have decided to absorb the 6% GST for its customers. While margins will be cut in the process, OPPO believes it is a way to ‘give back’ to its smartphone users.
OPPO has been one of the bright stars coming out of China and has quickly made an impact in Malaysia with its unique, cutting-edge smartphones. This includes the Find 7 and OPPO N1, the first smartphone with a rotating camera. The successors to popular duo are the hot-selling OPPO R5, at one stage the world’s thinnest phone; and the OPPO N3, the world’s first smartphone with a motorised rotating camera.
The industry and consumers are taking a cautious, “wait and see” approach to the GST, and this will likely impact sales in the mobile industry. OPPO’s decision to absorb the 6% GST may spark off a trend, and rival brands are likely to follow suit to spur consumer interest.
It remains to be seen the extent of the impact, but if anything, no price increase for smartphones is still great news for consumers.
What do you think? How has GST impacted your decision to buy your next gadget? Drop your comments below!
