TechInsights Wireless Smartphone Strategic Services pointed out that in Q3 2023, smartphone shipments from the Middle East and Africa increased by 13% year-on-year, which was supported by strong annual growth indicators from Chinese manufacturers and because the region was relatively less affected by the global macroeconomic situation. Over the years, in addition to the oil economy, the Middle East has developed more sources of income in tourism and other aspects, which has put the overall economy in a relatively good state. Africa is an unsaturated smartphone market with huge room for growth in the coming years.

if Tecno, Infinix and iTel of Chuanyin (688036.SH) are taken as separate brands, Samsung (28%) leads, followed by Xiaomi (16%) and Tecno(12%); However, if we take Chuanyin Group as a whole, Chuanyin leads with 31% market share, while Samsung and Xiaomi follow closely behind. Transparent Group has a strong foothold in the region with its entry-level offerings from Tecno, Infinix and iTel. Even if we keep these brands separate, they are still part of the top five vendors in the region. Transom is more popular in Africa than the Middle East, but Samsung is popular in both regions with its diverse products in different price ranges.

Medium, high-end, and ultra-high-end are more popular in the Middle East, while entry-level and mid-end are more popular in Africa. In Q3 2023, Honor achieved strong year-on-year growth of 125 per cent in the region, ranking it among the top 10 suppliers. Realme with C series and digital series increased by 50% year-on-year. Xiaomi grew 49% YoY in the region, firmly in the top three. The Middle East region helped Apple achieve annual growth in the region this quarter. OPPO (including OnePlus) declined YoY but remained among the top players.