Samsung to soon apply for single-brand retail licence in India

If reports are to be believed, Samsung might soon be joining Apple in applying for a single brand retail licence in India.

The South Korean electronics giant, headquartered in Samsung Town, Seoul, is looking forward to strengthen its presence in a crucial market, said executives who are aware of the matter.

After India eased FDI rules for single-brand retail in November last year, it has seen quite a good number of companies expressing desires for single brand retail licences.

Chinese smartphone maker Oppo, a relatively new entrant in the market, has already confirmed that it intends to apply for a direct presence in the country. Similarly, Chinese smartphone makers Xiaomi and Gionee are also keen of making these moves.

As reported last month, Apple has already filed for a single-brand retail licence.

Samsung executives confirmed that the company was looking at "opportunities" that stem from the policy; however, it hasn’t decided the final move yet.

Oppo, which is the fifth-largest smartphone player in China, has plans to set up 35,000 outlets in India by the end of this year, which would include both exclusive and franchise stores. This kind of licence "will bring best brand image and service to local customers," said Sky Li, who is the global vice president for the international mobile business of Oppo.

India is one of South Asia's fast-growing market, having surpassed the US to become the world's second largest market with 220 million active unique smartphone users in 2015. Because of this, it has seen several Chinese brands entering its market in the past year, with many more expected to make their Indian debut this year.

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