Oman's only manufacturer of air-conditioners, Eastern Trading & Industry (Nisma) is offering many innovative models this summer.
Nisma has introduced new series of wall-mounted splits, sleek version cassette units and SAW series window ACs which are superior in aesthetics, performance and durability compared to other equivalent brands, says managing director T C Premraj.
Nisma also offers slim type ducted units, universal mount, floor standing and central package ACs which make the range complete in comfort air-conditioning, he says.
All standard units feature high-efficiency American compressors, microprocessor controlled thermostat, wide sweep air swing and silent operation. Air purifying electrostatic filters are also provided as optional.
Nisma's products have found wide acceptance in Oman and other Gulf countries, in spite of the fact that it is competing with international brands.
"The aesthetic looks combined with its technical excellence have made Nisma popular in many developed countries also, thus establishing a strong export market," says Premraj.
ently Nisma is exported to 34 countries worldwide. GCC, Europe, Africa and Mediterranean are the main markets and the company is presently focusing on Iraqi and Iranian markets as well.
Nisma has a capacity to produce 19,000 units per year.
Apart from the comfort airconditioners, Nisma has recently introduced to its range new Aqua Magic Water Cooling System for commercial, residential and industrial process cooling applications. This equipment when connected to overhead tank maintains the tap water at 25 - 30 deg C even during peak summer to give a cool refreshing shower.
This system, which includes a condensing section, heat exchanger and circulating pump can easily be mounted and connected to overhead tanks. Aqua Magic System come in various models to suit the customer requirements and offered at affordable prices.
"We have received overwhelming response for our new Aqua Magic Systems from our distributors in all other GCC countries and has already supplied approximately 800 units. We are also confident that this new idea will catch up in Oman as well," says Premraj.
Also, in line with new trends in energy-efficient and eco-friendly air conditioners, Nisma offers ACs operating with new refrigerants R134a and R411b. Both these refrigerants are widely accepted in the developed world for their energy efficiency and low global warming potential.
"However, there is a need to create awareness among consumers in the Gulf on this sort of environmentally-friendly products. Presently, consultants are not specifying this product in the GCC. In Europe, it is popular and they are planning to phase out R22 refrigerant by 2007.
the newly inducted quality control measures in manufacturing and global sourcing of components, Nisma has improved on the quality and overall performance of its products.
"Though profit margins are thin in exports, they keep us going when the payment situation is tough within Oman," says Premraj. "Prices are very competitive in Oman and there is tough competition from Korean brands, who virtually resort to dumping."
He says tough quality standards should be imposed to guard against dumping. "Some kind of protection for local industry is necessary because for any industry to be successful, at least 50 per cent sold locally. You can find export market for the rest. Depending only on export is not viable," he says.
