Electronic goods such as air conditioners, LED televisions, refrigerators and washing machines are set to become more expensive from October 1, with manufacturers planning price increases of up to 8 percent amid rising input costs.
The latest increase would mark the third round of price revisions for several consumer electronics products this year. Industry reports indicate that prices have risen by around 23 percent over the past year, putting additional pressure on consumers ahead of the festive shopping season.
Air conditioners are expected to see the sharpest increase, with prices potentially rising by 5 to 8 percent. Refrigerators, washing machines and LED televisions could become around 3 to 4 percent more expensive. Several manufacturers, including Blue Star, Godrej Appliances, Haier, Daikin and Super Plastronics, have indicated price increases in the range of 4 to 10 percent across selected products.
LG and Bosch Home Comfort, which includes Hitachi, have already raised air-conditioner prices by up to 5 percent. Panasonic is reportedly reviewing its pricing strategy.
Manufacturers have attributed the increases largely to higher global prices of copper, steel, aluminium and crude oil. Haier India President N S Satish said copper prices had climbed sharply over the past year, significantly increasing production costs for air conditioners, which require several kilograms of copper.
However, consumers may not immediately feel the full impact. Dealers and distributors accumulated inventory during August and September, meaning older stocks could remain available through Diwali at existing prices.
The revised prices are therefore expected to become more widely visible after the festive season, potentially making post-Diwali purchases more expensive.
