YES!
Despite Xiaomi quietly exiting the Philippines back in 2016, demand for the Chinese brand’s products has never been higher. Thanks to re-sellers and other channels, Xiaomi’s products have never been as popular as they are now. The only thing missing is an official presence, and that might be coming to the Philippines this Feb., according to Yugatech and Revu Philippines.
Reports indicate that the company will be re-entering the market via Lazada, the company’s first sales channel when they setup shop in the Philippines back in 2014. The company will also be offering their products in Shopee as well.
Xiaomi’s also putting up physical stores in Quezon City and SM Megamall to further bolster their retail efforts, something that they neglected to do the first time around. The Chinese brand has been combating their domestic rivals OPPO and Vivo in brick and mortar locations in China and India, and it’s not surprising that they’re doing the same thing here in the Philippines.
Revu says that Xiaomi’s online stores may be up and running as early as Feb, likely during Chinese New Year, which would be a fitting return to form.
Xiaomi’s online-only strategy did not fly in the Philippines the first time around, and it looks like the company has learned its lesson. Despite their popularity, the company will be facing stiff competition from OPPO and Vivo, as well as brands like Huawei and Samsung who have already established strong retail locations around the country.
