Panasonic Holdings is exiting India’s refrigerator and washing machine segments, marking a significant downsizing of its consumer electronics business in the country as part of a broader global overhaul. The Japanese electronics major is shuttering the production lines for these products at its Jhajjar factory in Haryana and will now focus on core categories like televisions and air-conditioners, reported ET, citing senior industry executives.The company has struggled to secure a meaningful market share in these segments amid intense competition from Korean brands like LG and Samsung and Chinese rivals such as Haier. According to market data cited by ET, Panasonic’s current share is just 1.8% in washing machines and 0.8% in refrigerators.The Indian arm has not yet finalised the number of layoffs, but it is expected to be in the “high double digits.” Some employees may be relocated within the company. The factory will continue to operate as a contract manufacturing unit for other brands.Confirming the decision, a Panasonic India spokesperson was quoted by ET as saying, “In line with our global strategy and evolving market dynamics, Panasonic in India is rebuilding operations to focus on future-ready growth segments such as home automation, heating ventilation & cooling (AC), B2B solutions, electricals and energy solutions.”Panasonic added that it will support dealer partners with inventory liquidation and ensure uninterrupted customer service, including warranty and spare parts coverage. “Layoffs are a difficult but necessary step,” the spokesperson said, as cited by ET, adding that the company is providing assistance to impacted employees during the transition.This move follows Panasonic’s global announcement in May to slash 10,000 jobs, or about 4% of its workforce, half in Japan and half overseas. The decision is aimed at streamlining operations, closing unprofitable businesses, and improving agility amid a weakening global economy and softer demand for electric vehicles. Despite challenges, Panasonic remains committed to sectors like air-conditioning, EV batteries, and B2B solutions, both globally and in India. The Indian market will now see a sharper focus on residential and commercial ACs and televisions as the company realigns its strategy to concentrate on higher-margin, sustainable segments.