This IDC study, Levant Personal Computing 2005-2009 Forecast and 2004 Vendor Shares, provides detailed analysis, conclusions, and forecasts regarding the dynamics of this region's evolving market for personal computers. The information in this study is intended to provide an understanding of the changes and challenges facing the PC industry in these emerging markets. Our 2004 figures and analysis are based on information gathered from interviews with the leading IT companies (vendors, distributors, assemblers, system integrators, value-added resellers, and dealers) in the markets.

"The outlook for the Levant PC market in 2005 is poor, with political tension in Lebanon and trade sanctions on Syria. In the long term, however, these markets will represent growth opportunities for PC vendors. Continued reform and privatization efforts in the government, FDI inflow, and education initiatives will improve the market environment, while growing awareness of mobility, renewal cycles among large enterprises, and heightened demand from SoHo and SME users will boost PC sales. in the region." - Omar Shihab, Senior Analyst, IDC CEMA