Iraq's public and private sectors expected to purchase 450,000 PCs by 2008

Jordan and the United Arab Emirates, followed by Lebanon are expected to be the major suppliers of computer equipment to Iraq. The public and private sectors in Iraq including consumers are expected to annually purchase an estimated 450,000 PCs between 2004 and 2008.

Recent findings by Madar Research indicate that Iraq's IT spending will surge to US$1.42 billion in 2008. Driven by the growth of Internet use, data communications is expected to represent the largest share of IT spending by 2008 after computer equipment. IT services especially in terms of education and training, consultancy and web development will have a considerable share comparable to data communications.

"EPSON has distinguished itself by developing a diversified range of technology products suited to meet the IT needs of every market sector. The revival of Iraq's Information Communication Technology (ICT) market is a positive sign for the region as a whole and will once again boost the growing demand for IT related equipment. As a major international player in the digital imaging industry, EPSON intends to leverage on its regional presence to play a key role in meeting the demands of businesses and individual users in Iraq. As we have significant operations in Dubai, EPSON is comfortably placed to maximise the advantage of the emirate's status as a major transit point for goods moving to Iraq and the neighboring markets," said Khalil El Dalu, General Manager, EPSON Middle East.

"Manufacturers and distributors of Information Communication Technology be it hardware, software or peripherals will face major challenges as they try to gain inroads into the Iraq market. EPSON offers a diversified range of products from state-of-the-art printers, scanners, digital cameras, multimedia projectors, multi-function office devices and equipment for graphics and photo printing. We believe that EPSON's products with cutting-edge technology saves space, energy, costs and resources and will offer the right kind of infrastructure support that is vital in rebuilding the IT sector in Iraq," El Dalu added.

Research findings also show that several initiatives have already been set in process to revitalize the minimum ICT penetration that existed in different Iraqi sectors such as government, education and health. As part of its 'Ministry-in-a-box' and 'Municipality-in-a-box,' packages a leading aid organisation has provided computers, printers, copiers and other supplies to seven Iraqi ministries and three Baghdad municipalities by mid-July. Further ministries are expected to be furnished with IT equipment. It is expected that technocrats will lead technology adoption in the country, starting with immediate available tools to improve government Web presence, to push for increased automation and networking.