India's Appliance Makers Hike Prices by Up to 8% Amid Soaring Commodity Costs

Starting from October 1, consumers in India can expect to pay up to 8% more for air conditioners, LED TVs, and other home appliances. This price hike is attributed to soaring commodity prices, including copper, steel, and crude oil derivatives, as well as currency volatility caused by the ongoing West Asia crisis.

According to industry executives, this will be the third round of price hikes in 2026 for the sector. Blue Star's managing director, B Thiagarajan, explained that all commodity prices have increased due to the war, with copper and steel becoming significantly costlier.

Kamal Nandi, business head at Godrej Enterprises Group, noted that another industry-wide round of price increases has become inevitable after commodity prices rose 8-10% since the last revision. He also stated that consumers will still have an opportunity to buy products at existing prices during the festive season as inventory procured before the hikes remains available in the distribution channel.

Haier India's President, NS Satish, said that if they avoid taking price hikes, they will lose money. He confirmed a price hike of 5% on RAC from October 1 and may undertake further increases after Diwali and again in January if input costs continue to rise.