cover image by きりーな
Recently, news about camera manufacturers halting orders has been frequently reported. Let's take a closer look at what this situation means for the industry as a whole, along with its background.
Impact of the Overwhelmingly Weak Yen
In 2024, the Japanese yen has reached historic lows, with some days seeing it exceed 150 yen to the dollar.
This has driven up the prices of imported goods, increasing the cost of living for consumers. High-priced items such as electronics and cameras, which rely heavily on imports, are particularly affected.
At the same time, this situation represents an opportunity for export companies to increase profits, with many Japanese companies enhancing their competitiveness in the international market, especially in the U.S. market. While the weak yen is a blow to consumers' daily lives, it also presents an opportunity for manufacturers and other businesses to expand their markets overseas.
Image by IRIE＊DESIGN
Concentration of Camera Demand
With the advancement of smartphone camera technology, smartphones have become commonly used for everyday photography. This has had a dual impact on the camera market. Demand for low to mid-priced cameras that cannot keep up with smartphones has decreased, but conversely, demand for high-end cameras offering superior image quality and features has increased.
Both professionals and amateurs are seeking high-performance digital cameras, full-frame mirrorless cameras, and models equipped with large sensors. As a result, demand is concentrated on specific premium brands and models.
The camera industry is now facing several challenging situations, including the weak yen and the concentration of camera demand. While the problem may be temporary, it is important to consider long-term strategies for the future of the industry.
