Hi kb100
Yeah even I read that on the net. People worldwide do buy the 1080p panels but maybe they're not aware that beyond 10 feet, the human eye can't see the difference between 720p and 1080p.
I am shocked after seeing the Panasonic 42PX80 (equivalent of the Asian 42PV80 model sold here and in Singapore etc) plasma on sale at Amazon.com for only USD 728.13 with free shipping !! This equates to around INR 36,406.50 (at the rate USD 1 = INR 50) - what a steal for that price. We people are paying 60k for the same damn thing in India !!
Check this link:
Amazon.com: 40" - 49" - Plasma / 720p / Panasonic / TVs / Televisions: Audio & Video
Why so much difference in price ? Is it due to import duties & VAT of 12.5% ?
What's even more shocking is that even the 50 inch Panasonic 50PX80 (equivalent of 50PV80 here) costs only USD 975.00 at Amazon.com with free shipping. This equates to around INR 48,750/- which makes it even cheaper than the price we Indians are paying for the 42 inch 42PV80 here !!
Take a look at this Amazon link:
Amazon.com: Panasonic - Plasma / 50" & Above / 720p / TVs / Televisions: Audio & Video
Looking at these prices for almost the same plasmas outside India, I am curious to find out how much these units would cost in the grey market. Even if we could save 10-15k on these units, it would be a great deal, especially on the 50 inch plasmas. I would like to do some exploration on this. Will post back with the results.
Approximately how much duty would someone have to pay if he/she brings a 50 inch plasma into India from say, the US/UK or Australia ?
Warm regards,
Venkat