Japan Client PC 2009-2013 Forecast and Second Half 2008 Analysis

This IDC study (which is a translation of the Japanese report IDC #J9140103) analyzes Japan PC market trends in 2H08, clarifies the circumstances within the market, and presents forecasts. The entire market coverage includes all product types of x86 servers, desktops, and portable PCs. Data utilized in this study include annual data, with actual values until 2008 and forecast values after 2009. The quarterly data used in this study are actual values up to 4Q08 (October-December) and forecast values from 1Q09 (January-March). All values are updated up to March 2009.

"This financial crisis has greatly impacted not only PC vendors, but also IT vendors. However, from a different point of view, this could provide an opportunity to breach the stranglehold whereby companies purchase a competitor's products. For example, if it were possible to offer strategic pricing and support to companies hesitating to purchase PCs, it may be possible to have them switch from other companies. Furthermore, a program to provide loans for PC purchases to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that want to purchase replacement PCs but cannot obtain loans from banks would be effective. The financial crisis has created a harsh business environment, but with some strategic investment, it will be possible to sow seeds for the future as well as increase shipment units," points out Masahiro Katayama, Group Manager, PCs, IDC Japan.