THE sole distributor of Nokia in Cambodia announced a deal to sell Lenovo computers yesterday, though computer distribution will initially be less widespread than its mobile handset sales.

K Thong Huot Telecom Company (KTH) presently distributes Nokia phones to over 1,000 shops in Cambodia, which in turn sell to consumers, according to KTH Chief Executive Officer

Siriporn Nimtiparat.

The firm had begun selling Lenovo computers at 10 shops in Cambodia, with further rollout plans for next year, she said.

“We are willing to expand [Lenovo sales],” she said, but added many shopkeepers who hawked mobiles would require additional training before they could sell computers.

Lenovo originally launched distribution in the Kingdom with PTC and Anana computers last year, and the latest deal positions KTH as its third licensed distributor.

Kyler Tan, Lenovo country general manager, said yesterday PTC and Anana targeted sales to corporations, while KTH would leverage its distribution network towards the mass-market.

KTH – which is majority Cambodian owned – also opened three new stores under its own name in Phnom Penh yesterday, on street 271, and Sihanouk and Monireth Boulevards.

The firm plans to partner with more IT manufacturers in the near future, but will focus on different products than other established firms such as K-Four, according to Siriporn Nimtiparat.

Cambodia’s electronics market was maturing, and with it came increased demand for higher-end products, she said.