Japanese group, Canon Inc, which specializes in the production and commercialization of imaging and reprographic equipment, and electronic accessories, of medical use knowingly, plans to open an office in Africa, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco and Nigeria being the choices it considers. The news was reported by Egyptian media Amwal Al Ghad.

Deputy director general of Sillicon 21, Ayman Ghad, cited by the source indicated that Egypt might probably be Canon’s choice. Sillicon 21 is an Egyptian firm which has the main distribution rights of Canon products. According to Mr. Ghad, Egypt will be chosen due to its position which is extremely favorable. He added that Canon Inc plans to acquire 30-35% of market shares.

For now, Canon, considering its leadership, sells well in Africa, even though it has to compete with Helwett Packard (HP). Its operations in the region are handled from a pool comprising Africa, Europe and Middle East-North Africa region.

From a strategic point of view, the other countries where Canon might land also present some advantages. Morocco has a big market for IT goods. Also, it is well positioned in various francophone sub Saharan African markets. Nigeria, besides being a significant market, holds a key position and could serve as a regional base.

In addition, the group acquired Océ SA, a leader in terms of management and printing of documents. However, it will have to convince investors of its strategy. In the Tokyo stock market, its share drpped by 5.35% at April 27, 2016, after his heads announced that turnover for Q1 2016 was below that during the previous year.

Idriss Linge